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Many popular flowers are harmful to cats and dogs. Use this guide to pick an arrangement for a home with pets, and call us if you want a custom design built only from pet-friendly flowers.

The one rule for cat owners

No lilies. Not even one stem.

True lilies (Asiatic, Oriental, stargazer, tiger) are deadly to cats. Pollen on a coat, or a sip from the vase water, can cause kidney failure. If you share your home with a cat, check every arrangement for lilies before you order.

How to choose

  1. Step 1: Pick a pet-friendly flower

    Roses, orchids (Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium), sunflowers, gerbera daisies, snapdragons and freesia are generally considered safe.

  2. Step 2: Check the greens

    Filler matters too. Eucalyptus, ivy and some ferns are toxic. Ask for plain rose leaves, salal or other pet-friendly foliage.

  3. Step 3: Ask us before you order

    Our designers can confirm exactly what is in any design and swap out risky stems. Call the shop and mention your pet.

  4. Step 4: Place it out of reach

    Even safe flowers can upset a stomach. Put the vase high, and clear fallen petals and leaves.

Flowers by pet risk

Generally safe

  • Roses (thorns can scratch)
  • Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium orchids
  • Sunflowers
  • Gerbera daisies
  • Snapdragons
  • Freesia

Use caution

  • Alstroemeria
  • Dahlias
  • Bird of paradise
  • Pittosporum greens

Sources disagree on these. Ask us, or leave them out if your pet chews plants.

Avoid

  • All true lilies (deadly to cats)
  • Hydrangea
  • Calla lily and peace lily
  • Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths
  • Chrysanthemums
  • Carnations
  • Delphinium
  • Eucalyptus

If your pet eats flowers

Call right away. Do not wait for symptoms, especially after a cat has contact with a lily.

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control(888) 426-443524 hours. A consultation fee may apply.
  • Pet Poison Helpline(855) 764-766124 hours. A consultation fee may apply.

Want something made for your pet-friendly home?

Call Rafael Florist at 415.457.4711 or visit us at 815 3rd St, San Rafael. Tell us about your pet and we will design with safe flowers and greens only.

This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Plants affect individual animals differently. Consult your veterinarian about any concern.