Vet Dr Charlotte Inness, of VetMedi.co.uk, warned certain varieties can cause health issues in pets.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, millions of Brits will head to supermarkets and florists to pick up a romantic bouquet of flowers for their loved ones.
Although a beautiful bunch of blooms may secure brownie points with your partner, for the UK’s 21.6 million cats and dogs, that gesture of love could result in a life-threatening emergency, according to a leading vet.
Dr Charlotte Inness, vet and founder of VetMedi.co.uk, is warning pet owners to be careful with their choice of floral arrangements as many high-toxicity plants can prove dangerous to cats and dogs if consumed, and could lead to an expensive vet treatment.
“Unlike garden plants, which pets might ignore, a fresh bouquet on a coffee table is a new, fragrant curiosity for a bored cat or an inquisitive dog,” says Dr Charlotte Inness. “Many flowers commonly found in bouquets – including lilies and tulips – can prove dangerous to cats and dogs if consumed, and could lead to an expensive vet treatment.”
"Be vigilant and extra cautious during times when you are likely to have more flowers on display at home than usual. Pets can be notoriously curious, so be sure to keep vases of bouquets and potted indoor plants well out of reach if you do have cats and dogs in your home."
To ensure your romantic gesture doesn't end in the emergency room, Dr Inness has identified the "fatal five" species of pretty petals to avoid this February 14th.
Five flowers that are toxic to pets
-
Lilies: The single most dangerous flower for both cats and dogs, every part - the petals, leaves, pollen, and even the vase water - is highly toxic. For curious pets ingesting any part of the plant, drinking the water from the vase or even grooming just a few grains of pollen off their fur after brushing against a bouquet can lead to acute kidney failure.
-
Tulips: Tulips contain tulipalin A and B, toxic compounds that can cause mild symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling if ingested. While the petals are irritating, the bulbs are the real danger as they contain the highest concentration of toxins. If a cat or dog ingests a large amount, this can lead to more serious symptoms such as heart complications and breathing difficulties.
-
Daffodils: Often found in mixed spring bouquets - a popular seasonal choice during Valentine’s Day - daffodils contain a poisonous alkaloid, which triggers severe vomiting in pets. The crystals found in the bulbs can also cause heart arrhythmias or respiratory distress.
-
Hyacinths: Similar to tulips, the concentrated toxins in the bulbs can cause mouth irritation, severe vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, lethargy, and potentially severe symptoms like tremors if chewed or swallowed by cats and dogs, requiring immediate veterinary attention. Even inhaling the strong scent can cause respiratory irritation, so it's best to keep them out of reach or avoid them if you have cats.
-
Autumn Crocus: Though rarer, these are occasionally used in high-end arrangements and can be extremely toxic. Toxic in all parts, but particularly in the bulb, blooms and seeds, Autumn crocus contains tropane alkaloids, which are extremely poisonous to dogs and can cause serious renal issues or even organ failure and internal bleeding. If ingested common symptoms are burning in the mouth, increased salivation, thirst, difficulty swallowing, stomach pain, diarrhoea and blood in urine or failure to pass urine.
Pet friendly blooms
Dr Charlotte Inness has the following advice for pet owners :“There’s a common misconception that all flowers are dangerous and toxic for pets, but there are also great choices if you're looking for pet-friendly blooms.”
-
Roses: A popular choice for Valentine’s Day, all 100 species of rose are non-toxic to cats and dogs, but owners should be wary of thorns which can cause painful injuries for your pet if stepped on, chewed, or eaten.
-
Sunflowers: These bright, cheerful blooms are non-toxic to both dogs and cats. They make a fantastic, safe statement piece for a Valentine’s bouquet without the hidden risks associated with lilies.
-
Orchids: Though their elegant and tropical appearance may cause some pet owners to worry about toxicity, orchids are perfectly safe to have in your home with your pets. Plus, as a bonus, their low-maintenance watering needs make them the perfect choice for a busy household.
What to do in an emergency
“If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, do not wait for symptoms like vomiting or lethargy to appear, minutes matter when it comes to preventing toxins from being absorbed into the bloodstream,” warns Dr. Inness. “A fast response is vital; your vet may be able to safely induce vomiting before the toxins are absorbed, or provide immediate treatment for rapidly developing symptoms.
"Identify the culprit by taking a photo of the bouquet or bringing the plant with you to the surgery, and call your vet immediately. Do not attempt to make your pet sick at home unless specifically instructed by a professional. Depending on the toxin, hospitalisation may be necessary to provide the intensive support required to reduce the risk of organ failure.”
For a full list of toxic flowers and plants, visit: www.VetMedi.co.uk
