Flowers are typical parts of celebrations. They are also commonly given to loved ones during special occasions and even on ordinary days. While generally, flowers are harmless, except for those who are allergic to certain variants, you should still practice care when choosing flowers for someone with pets. Don’t just choose flowers based on their appearance or smell. Choose pet-safe flowers that can leave you free from unnecessary worries.
Check out this list of pet-safe flowers that you can mix and match to come up with floral arrangements that can give you peace of mind even with pets around.
Pet-Safe Flowers for Those with Furbabies
Roses
The classic rose is not just an all-occasion flower. It is also a safe choice for people with dogs and cats at home. Their petals are pet-friendly and won’t cause pets to get sick in case they are exposed to them or even when they have accidentally chewed on them.
CAUTION: Since roses have thorns, it is advised to remove or put them in a tall vase where the thorns won’t be easily accessed.
Sunflowers
Another popular type of flower, sunflowers are also pet-friendly. As they are attractive to the eyes, sunflowers may capture the attention of dogs or cats, too. Good thing, they don’t pose serious hazards to pets. However, make sure that sunflowers are not deliberately eaten by your pets to prevent stomach upsets. Even so, sunflowers are not known to cause significant health concerns.
Gerberas
Gerberas come in different shades which make them more attractive and a preferred flower for all types of occasions. You can find gerberas in the colors yellow, white, pink, red, orange, and lavender. These blooms are vibrant and are a top choice to create nice flower arrangements. While gerberas are generally safe for pets, there are similar flowers from the same family that is not considered pet-safe.
Orchids
One of the most common flowers that are used for flower arrangements, orchids are beautiful and come with special meanings. They are so versatile that they can be used for flower arrangements that are intended to be given as gifts but there are also arrangements that are specifically used as sympathy flowers. Orchids are pet-safe flowers as they are non-toxic.
Freesias
If you are not familiar with freesias, these flowers are often presented as potted plants. They are also used as a filler for flower arrangements. They are colorful, funnel-shaped, and tall. They have leaves that are shaped like swords. Freesia’s scent resembles that of lemon. Most importantly, they are among the pet-safe flowers that will leave you with nothing to worry about when it comes to your furbabies.
Waxflowers
Another type of flower that are commonly used as fillers, waxflowers make a great addition to flower arrangements, They come in the shared of dark red and dark purple and have needle-like leaves. These pet-safe flowers are long-lasting and can survive up to three weeks when placed in a vase.
Non-Pet-Safe Flowers to Avoid
As there are pet-safe flowers, there are also toxic flowers that can endanger the life of your cat or dog. Some of them are included in the list below:
1. Azalea
2. Baby’s Breath
3. Carnations
4. Chrysanthemums
5. Daffodil
6. Eucalyptus
7. Foxgloves
8. Hydrangea
9. Iris
10. Lavender
11. Lilies
12. Oleander
13. Peony
14. Tulips
ALSO READ: Creative Ways to Preserve a Flower Bouquet
In most households, pets are treated as family members so if you are planning to give a flower bouquet to a loved one, be considerate by choosing pet-safe flowers. Better yet, order from a reputable flower shop with experienced florists who can guide you in choosing fresh and beautiful flowers that won’t cause harm to cats and dogs.
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