Expert warns: These 6 Valentine’s Day flowers are deadly to pets!

Find out which blooms are pet-safe and which to avoid to keep furry friends safe on Valentine’s Day

10-02-25 13:11

in Pets

Valentine's Day flowers that could harm your pets (and some safer alternatives) Image: Pexels

A bouquet of lovely flowers is a timeless Valentine’s Day gift for your special someone. However, if they have pets at home, choosing the wrong flowers could be harmful.

“A lot of common flowers are actually highly toxic to pets like cats and dogs,” says Alexa Johnston, a sex and relationship expert at Just Dildos, Australia’s premier online store dedicated exclusively to high-quality dildos.

To rustle up a perfect bouquet this Valentine’s Day, read on to discover which plants are safe for pets – and which very much are not.

Popular Bouquet Flowers That Could Be Deadly To Your Pet

Lilies
These elegant, fragrant flowers are a Valentine’s favourite, but they are extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. “Ingesting any part of the lily, including the pollen, can cause fatal kidney failure,” says Alexa. “Even drinking the water from a vase of lilies could kill a cat.”

Tulips
These springtime beauties might look perfect in a bouquet, but they contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, drooling, and diarrhoea in both cats and dogs.

Daffodils
These sunny yellow flowers, often included in mixed bouquets, are highly toxic for both cats and dogs when ingested. The bulbs, in particular, contain harmful alkaloids that can trigger severe gastrointestinal distress and even heart issues.

Oleander
While not as common in Valentine’s arrangements, this flower’s delicate pink blooms mask a deadly secret. “Oleander contains cardiac glycosides that can be fatal if ingested by pets,” Alexa explains.

Hyacinths
Their intoxicating scent might make them a popular choice, but hyacinths contain substances that, when ingested, can cause severe drooling, vomiting, and tremors in pets.

Peonies
A romantic favourite, peonies contain toxins that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs if ingested.

Other Plants To Keep Out Of Reach

While these may not be common in Valentine’s Day bouquets, they’re still dangerous for pets:

Azaleas/Rhododendrons
Cyclamen
Chrysanthemums
Gladioli
Foxglove
Ivy (English and Hedera varieties)
Holly
Yew
Amaryllis
Autumn Crocus
Poinsettias
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Peace Lily
Sago Palm
Mistletoe
Nightshade

So, Which Flowers Are Perfect For A Pet-Friendly Valentine’s Bouquet?

“You don’t have to sacrifice beauty for safety!” Alexa says. Here, she recommends some gorgeous, non-toxic blooms you can use instead:

Roses
The ultimate symbol of love! True roses (Rosa species) are non-toxic to pets, making them the perfect Valentine’s Day flower.

Orchids
Exotic and elegant, orchids add a romantic touch while being safe for pets.

Sunflowers
Bright and cheerful, sunflowers are non-toxic and make a stunning and quirky statement in any bouquet.

Snapdragons
With their unique shape and vibrant colours, snapdragons are a lovely and safe option.

Gerbera Daisies
These cheerful flowers add a pop of colour and are completely pet-friendly.

Asters
These delicate flowers are safe for pets and add an elegant, whimsical touch to bouquets.

Camellias
Soft, romantic, and safe for your furry friends – plus, they smell amazing!

Alexa Johnston, a sex and relationship expert at Just Dildos, commented:

“When choosing the perfect bouquet, think about striking a balance between beauty, meaning, and longevity. First, think about who you’re giving it to. Are they a fan of classic romance? You can’t go wrong with roses. Do they love bright, cheerful colours? Sunflowers or Gerbera daisies are a great pick.

“Then, consider fragrance. Some people love snapdragons’ light, fresh scent, while others prefer the delicate perfume of orchids. Texture is another fun element—mixing soft petals with a few unique, wispy stems like asters can make a bouquet feel dynamic and personal.

“And, of course, longevity matters! Some flowers, like roses and camellias, stay fresh longer with the right care. My best tip? Don’t just go for what looks good in the store—think about how it will look in a few days. Fresh stems, tight buds, and a quick water change at home will keep your bouquet looking stunning for as long as possible.”