Want to create a home that’s safe for flowers and cats? Here is a list of 18 safe fresh-cut flowers and 20 toxic fresh-cut flowers for cats.
I grew up in a family that owns a small flower shop. Since young, I have been educated about flower care and how some flowers are not suitable for certain families. After researching more, I put together a list and some pointers on creating a home safe for flowers and cats.
As humans, we love seeing flowers in our homes. We receive bouquets all the time, especially on special occasions. But we don’t want this happy moment to take a downward spiral when your cat takes a bite out of a toxic flower.
Keep reading to find out:
Why would flowers be toxic to cats?
Flower Poisoning Symptoms in Cats
Why do cats like flowers so much?
Safe Flowers and Cats
Toxic Flowers and Cats
Prevent cats from eating flowers
Why would flowers be toxic to cats?
Unlike humans or cats, flowers don’t have limbs to fend for themselves. So, flowers need to evolve in a way where they can fend off their predators. They are able to do that by being toxic to animals, so they won’t get eaten.
Not all flowers are toxic, but they are not meant to be eaten either. Even though the flowers are “safe” to be around cats, we don’t suggest letting your feline go wild with them. Your kitty can still get an upset stomach, vomit, or get diarrhea.
Flower Poisoning Symptoms in Cats
- Irritation around the mouth
- Excessive salivation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- liver or kidneys failure
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Neurologic side effects
- Seizures
- Death
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has found plants to be top 5 of the most common poisoning in pets.
Why do cats like flowers so much?
A common saying “curiosity killed the cat” is the perfect explanation here. Especially at a young age, cats are curious about what flowers have to offer. It can be the smell, color, or texture that sparks their curiosity.
Cats have an excellent sense of smell. They have around 14 times more smell receptors than humans This means they can sense change around the environment sharply. And when they do, they would want to investigate their invaded territory.
Safe Flowers and Cats
- Alyssum
- Alstroemeria
- Aster
- Bachelor’s button
- Gerbera daisy
- Camellia
- Celosia
- Daisies
- Snapdragons
- Petunias
- General Lilacs
- Rose
- Orchid
- Zinnia
- Pansy
- Sunflower
- Violet
- Marigold
- BONUS: Ferns provide safe greenery for your bouquet
Toxic Flowers and Cats
- Amaryllis
- Begonia
- Azalea and Rhododendrons
- Narcissus (including Daffodils)
- Bird of paradise
- Iris
- Narcissus
- Oleander
- Carnation
- Lily of the valley
- Chrysanthemum
- Tulips
- Hydrangeas
- Kalanchoe
- Hyacinths
- Cyclamen
- True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocalis)
- Wisteria
- Poinsettia
- Persian lilac
- BONUS: ivy, eucalyptus, Carolina jessamine, winter daphne, and snake plant
This list is not comprehensive. Always check with your vet before assuming it’s safe.
Prevent cats from eating flowers
Familiarize yourself with flowers that are safe for your cat (and let your loved ones know!) You can tell those who buy you flowers to let the flower shop know to make a bouquet that’s safe for cats. This avoids the awkwardness of having to toss it out right away before your cat gets to it. Abstinence is the best prevention!
If you have an outdoor cat, your cat might be interested in your neighbor’s lilies. Be aware of what’s around your neighborhood and keep your furry friend away from those toxic flowers.
In the event that your cat has ingested a toxic flower (or is in doubt), contact your veterinarian, ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435), or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Take a picture of the plant your cat ate and keep a sample to bring to your vet.
What to do next
If you are not a big fan of fresh-cut flowers and bouquets, plants may be an alternative. Here are 39 Non-Toxic Indoor Plants Safe For Cats.
