Here’s a visually informative image highlighting common flowers and plants toxic to pets—definitely worth keeping in mind if you share your home with animals.

ASPCA (888) 426-4435
Animal Poison Control Center

Blog: “Are Fresh Flowers Toxic to Pets? A Guide for Pet-Loving Homes”

At Ward's Florist we get asked this question all the time. We don't always know the answer, so we decided to find out for ourselves and at the same time share that information with you.

Bringing fresh flowers into your home brings beauty and joy—but if you have curious pets, it's crucial to know which blooms can pose real danger.

Most Common Toxic Flowers for Pets

• Lilies (Lilium & Hemerocallis species) – Highly toxic to cats, these flowers—including Easter, Tiger, Stargazer, and Daylilies—can cause acute kidney failure from even minimal exposure. (ASPCA, Rover.com)

• Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) – All parts are dangerous to dogs and cats, with ingestion risking vomiting, liver failure, seizures, and even death. (ASPCA)

• Tulips (Tulipa spp.) – Especially the bulbs are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, potentially causing stomach upset or blockages. Cats may experience vomiting, tremors, and even cardiac issues. (ASPCA, Wikipedia)

• Oleander (Nerium oleander) – Good thing we don't cary this one at Ward's Florist! All parts are highly toxic, leading to severe heart problems, vomiting, and potentially fatal outcomes in pets. (ASPCA, Wikipedia)

• Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) – Extremely dangerous; even small ingestions can damage the heart, liver, kidneys, and bone marrow. (ASPCA)

• Tulip, Daffodil, Hyacinth bulbs – Can cause gastrointestinal upset, low blood pressure, arrhythmias, respiratory distress, and seizures. (iHeartDogs.com, GardenDesign.com, Blooming Backyard, Wikipedia)

• Azaleas/Rhododendrons – Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, or even coma due to grayanotoxins. (ASPCA, iHeartDogs.com)

• Chrysanthemums, Cyclamen – May induce stomach upset, loss of coordination, or more severe symptoms in extreme cases. (Animpets, Blooming Backyard)

• Peace Lily & Pothos – These contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation, drooling, mouth pain, or vomiting—though they are less severe than true lilies. (ASPCA, Wikipedia)

• Hydrangeas – Contain cyanogenic glycosides; ingestion may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and possibly seizures in small pets. (Southern Living, Blooming Backyard)

• Lily of the Valley – Extremely toxic; can affect heart rate and blood pressure, and may cause seizures or coma. (iHeartDogs.com, Petal Republic)

• Others to Note – Include Lobelia and Monkshood, which can cause severe digestive, cardiac, and neurological symptoms even in small quantities. (Petal Republic)

Why This Matters

Pets—especially dogs and cats—are curious by nature. Swallowing even a single nibble of a toxic bloom can quickly lead to serious health risks. Early symptoms often include vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, organ failure or seizures.

Pet-Safe Flower Alternatives

Looking to brighten your home without worry? Consider these safer choices:

• Roses, Gerbera Daisies, Orchids, Sunflowers, Snapdragons—these are generally non-toxic and pet-friendly. (ASPCA, People.com) Place your order today for these pet safe flowers at Ward's Florist.   If you are ordering online please include that you are looking for pet safe flowers in the special instructions.

Safety Tips for Pet Parents

1. Know which plants you bring home—check the ASPCA’s searchable list if uncertain. (ASPCA)

2. Keep dangerous plants out of reach—place blooms on high surfaces or in pet-free areas.

3. Watch for symptoms—vomiting, drooling, or lethargy? Contact your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control immediately. (888–426–4435) (ASPCA, AP News)

In Summary

Gorgeous floral displays don’t have to become hazards. By staying informed and choosing pet-friendly blooms—or simply placing showy favorites out of paws’ reach—you can enjoy décor safely in a pet-loving household.

Need help choosing the safest flowers for your home or gifting around pets? I’d be happy to help guide you! Give Ward's Florist a call At 978-922-0032