Your Guide to Flowers & Cats: What Flowers are Safe Vs. Toxic for Cats?

Most common plants and flowers that are toxic to cats

While you may love having flowers and cats in your home, they don’t always go together well. Cats may nibble on plants for various reasons, including curiosity or simply as a form of entertainment. Unfortunately, many common household plants and flowers poisonous to cats. Here is a list of some of the most toxic plants for cats:

Amaryllis (Amaryllis spp.)

Although it is a beautiful flowering plant, it contains compounds that can be highly toxic to cats. You can take this one off your list of flowers safe for cats.

Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) 

Of the flowers poisonous to cats, these ones are near the top. Ingesting any part of this plant can lead to severe toxicity.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) 

Neither of these are flowers safe for cats. These vibrant plants contain toxins that can harm our feline friends.

Castor Bean (Ricinus communis) 

All parts of this plant are toxic, especially the seeds.

Chrysanthemum, Daisy, and Mum (Chrysanthemum spp.) 

These popular blooms can cause a range of toxic reactions and are not flowers safe for cats.

Cyclamen (Cyclamen spp.) 

Ingesting the tubers of this plant can lead to severe health issues.

Daffodils and Narcissus (Narcissus spp.) 

Although there are some flowers safe for cats, these certainly don’t make the list. All parts of these flowers can be toxic, with the bulbs being the most dangerous.

Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia spp.) 

This common houseplant contains substances that can irritate the mouth and throat of cats.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) 

If you’re wondering what flowers are toxic for cats, the English Ivy is up there. While it’s a beautiful trailing vine, English Ivy is highly toxic to cats.

Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis) 

These are not flowers safe for cats. All parts of this plant, especially the bulbs, can be toxic to cats.

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe spp.) 

This succulent plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress in cats.

Lily (Lilium spp.) 

Wondering if these are flowers safe for cats? Not at all! Be Chewy says that Lilies are among the worst of the flowers that are toxic to cats, with ingestion leading to severe kidney damage and potentially fatal outcomes.

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) 

This delicate-looking plant contains cardiac glycosides that can be dangerous for cats. Keep your pet away because these are not flowers safe for cats.

Marijuana (Cannabis sativa) 

Cats can experience adverse effects from marijuana, so be cautious if you’re a cannabis user.

Oleander (Nerium oleander) 

All parts of this plant are highly toxic, and ingestion can lead to severe health issues.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.) 

Ingestion can result in mouth and throat irritation, as well as digestive issues.

Pothos and Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum) 

This common houseplant contains compounds that can irritate the mouth and throat.

Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) 

All parts of this palm can be extremely toxic to cats.

Spanish Thyme (Coleus amboinicus) 

Ingesting this herb can cause gastrointestinal problems in cats.

Tulip (Tulipa spp.) 

Although these springtime flowers bring us joy, they are not flowers safe for cats. It’s important t avoid the bulbs, as those are especially harmful to cats.

Yew (Taxus spp.) 

All parts of the yew plant can be lethal to cats if ingested.

What are the signs of plant toxicity in cats?

Recognizing the signs of plant toxicity in cats is crucial for timely intervention. If your pet has interacted with flowers toxic to cats, the symptoms may vary depending on the plant and the amount ingested. Common signs of plant toxicity in cats include:

Irritation of the skin

Your pet may exhibit irritation, particularly around the mouth, if they have come into contact with flowers toxic to cats.

Trouble breathing

Some plants and bad flowers for cats can cause respiratory distress, leading to difficulty in breathing.

Drooling

If your pet has been around poisonous flowers to cats, excessive drooling can be an initial sign of plant toxicity..

Lethargic behaviour

Cats may become sluggish and show reduced activity levels.

Digestive upset

Poisonous flowers to cats can commonly cause gastrointestinal upset.

Vomiting

Poisonous flowers for cats may cause your pet to vomit as their body tries to expel the toxic substances.

Irregular heartbeat

In severe cases, some toxic plants can lead to irregular heart rhythms.

Excessive drinking

Increased thirst may be a sign of plant toxicity.

Difficulty swallowing

If the throat is swollen due to ingestion of a toxic plant, cats may struggle to swallow.

What is the treatment for plant toxicity in cats?

The treatment for plant toxicity in cats depends on the severity of the poisoning. It’s vital to seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant. Treatment options may include:

Activated charcoal

To absorb any remaining toxins in the gut.

Medication

To protect and soothe the damaged areas of the stomach.

Fluids

Administered to keep the cat hydrated and flush toxins from the body.

Anti-inflammatory medication

In cases of severe gastrointestinal effects.

Hospitalization

Some cats may need to stay at the vet for critical care.

Remember that different plants and flowers bad for cats can cause different reactions, and the severity of toxicity can vary widely. Early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.

How to prevent toxicity in cats?

After you’ve figured out what flowers are poisonous to cats, you can start preventing accidents in your home. Preventing plant toxicity in cats involves taking proactive steps to safeguard your home and your feline friends:

Choose cat-friendly plants

Opt for plants that are safe for cats, such as cat grass, catnip, and spider plants.

Keep toxic plants out of reach

Even if a plant is considered unsafe, cats may still attempt to nibble on it. Place toxic plants in areas inaccessible to your pets.

Supervise outdoor activities

If your cat enjoys spending time outdoors, keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t come into contact with poisonous plants in the neighbourhood. Consider using a leash or harness.

What to do if your cat has eaten a poisonous plant

If you suspect your cat has consumed a toxic plant, take the following steps:

Identify the plant

If possible, determine which plant your cat ingested. There are many poisonous flowers for cats and this information is vital for effective treatment.

Take a sample

Bring a part of the plant with you to the vet, as it can help in identifying the toxin.

Seek immediate medical attention

Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic for guidance. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

In the case of unknown plants, your vet may need to conduct tests to determine the type of poison involved. Timely action can make a significant difference in your cat’s recovery.

The danger of outdoor plants

It’s not just the plants within your home that pose a threat to your cat’s safety. Outdoor plants, such as those in your neighbour’s gardens, can also be dangerous. While keeping your cat indoors is the safest option, if you choose to let them explore the outdoors, take precautions like supervising their activities and ensuring they stay away from potentially harmful plants.

Flowers cats are allergic to

While some plants and flowers are toxic to cats, some can cause allergies. Wag says that flowering plants releasing airborne pollen are often weeds (like ragweed) and are responsible for many feline seasonal allergies.

If your cat has an allergy to flower pollen, they may experience coughing and other respiratory issues, as well as skin problems, which are often termed atopic dermatitis

Are there any plants or flowers safe for cats?

Yes! If you’re wondering what flowers are safe for cats, there are actually many! Here are some plants and flowers that are safe for cats that we suggest bringing into your space!

Spider plant

Of the plants and flowers not toxic to cats, spider plants are a great option. They’re excellent air purifiers and require minimal care, making them an easygoing plant for busy pet owners. While perfectly safe for both cats and dogs to eat, keep an eye on your feline as spider plants have the same effect as catnip.

Boston fern

Boston ferns are another air-purifying and can be added to the list of plants and flowers not toxic to cats. They require regular watering, but they can thrive in low-light conditions.

Parlour palm

The quintessential houseplant! The parlour palm thrives in cramped, low-light spaces and can withstand an occasional curious nibble from your furry friends.

Bamboo palm

Another member of the palm family, bamboo palms are a pet friendly plantand an alternative to the popular fiddle leaf fig. They grow tall and can add a tropical touch to your home.

African violet

African violets are colourful and non toxic flowers for cats. This is a great option for those looking for a blooming indoor plant. They require bright, indirect light and should be kept away from cold drafts.

Ponytail palm

The ponytail palm is unique, hardy and best of all, a pet friendly plant. They require minimal watering and can add a playful touch to any room, making them fun, safe plants for pets.

Money tree

The money tree is a very popular houseplant believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Although they lack the ability to actually grow money, they make good plants safe for pets and an excellent addition to any home.

Areca palm

Areca palms are plants safe for pets and can grow up to six feet tall. They require bright, indirect light and regular watering.

Christmas cactus

Christmas cacti are festive safe flowers for cats that bloom in the winter months. They require bright, indirect light and minimal watering, making them one of the easier-to-care-for indoor plants safe for pets.

Cat grass and catnip

Aside from non toxic flowers for cats, herbs like cat grass and catnip are excellent. The best part? You and your cat can enjoy them both together! 

What do you feed a pet that ate a toxic plant?

Some cats and flowers don’t go together well, but cats and a great diet do. We suggest trying Bold by Nature raw food diet for pets. We consider this to be the best raw food for cats, as each recipe is low-glycemic and single-protein and consists of the most basic and essential ingredients. This is especially great for pets with allergies as narrowing down the culprit allergin becomes a lot easier.

If your pet has eaten a plant or flower that has caused some sort of stomach upset, raw food is a great solution for digestive problems in cats. Since they don’t contain any unnecessary ingredients or fillers, their body won’t have any problem processing the food they are eating. 

On top of Bold by Nature’s amazing tastes, they’re also packed with benefits. Each raw food diet for cats is loaded with nutrients that are integral to the promotion of healthy skin, a beautiful coat, stronger bones and joints, better digestion, and dental health. Just make sure to follow a raw feeding guide for cats to make sure your pet is eating appropriately!

Where can I find Bold by Nature products?

Now that you’ve learned a bit more about cats and flowers, it could be time to consider a raw diet. If you’re wondering where to buy raw food, you’ve got two choices! You can either shop online or at a local retailer that carries Bold by Nature products. If you’re unsure of which stores carry our products, you can use our location finder to explore a retailer near you. If you’d like to learn more about raw food or have any further pet-related questions, like why cats vomit after eating, please feel free to visit our blog!