AVOID MIXED FLOWER BOUQUETS WHEN YOU HAVE CATS
(But they’re so pretty!!!) I know, but chances are your mixed flower bouquet contains one or more toxic flowers… So skip the fancy mixed flower bouquets and go for bouquets that feature one type of flower. Here’s a list of five great flowers you can get for Valentine’s Day (or any occasion) and feel good that these flowers will be a hit with your loved one and non-toxic to your cat (also a loved one).
Roses
We know, roses can be so cliché for Valentine’s Day…but there’s no doubt that roses are beautiful. Stick to traditional roses from the Rosacea family as other flowers with the word “rose” in them can actually be dangerous (think primrose). Find out what color your main squeeze likes and bring home a beautiful bouquet of roses that will make your Valentine – and your cats very happy.
Alstroemeria
Alstroemeria, also known as a Peruvian Lily, is one of my personal favorite flowers. Alstroemeria are not traditional lilies which are extremely toxic to cats. Instead, these alstroemeria beauties are non-toxic to cats, relatively inexpensive and last for a really long time. I frequently buy these at Trader Joe’s for $3.99 for a full bouquet that sometimes lasts up to 2 weeks! I cannot emphasize enough – do not buy lilies for your home if you have cats.
Further reading about toxic lilies here.
Gerbera Daisies
Not all daisies are safe for cats – be sure to avoid: chamomile, chrysanthemum (“mums”), showy daisies and seaside daisies, to name a few.
Orchids
Orchids are little works of art. Each one is unique, delicate and vibrant. Orchids last for years as long as you care for them and orchids are non-toxic to cats.
I’ve seen great deals on beautiful orchids at many places including Trader Joe’s and Home Depot, to name a few.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers can make anyone’s day brighter. And the great news is that they are non-toxic to cats! Sunflowers are mostly native to North America and are a great source of nutrition for humans…. but we don’t recommend eating them. Just enjoy their beauty!
When in doubt, check it out
It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your cats. If none of the flower options appeal to you, definitely visit and bookmark the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants. You’ll find a full array of plants and flowers that are both toxic and non-toxic to cats. It’s a truly invaluable resource.
