Keep Your Pets Safe: Is Your Mother’s Day Gift Toxic?

March 20, 2025

Keep Your Pets Safe: Is Your Mother’s Day Gift Toxic?

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the special women in our lives with thoughtful gifts, but some seemingly harmless presents can actually pose serious risks to pets. We’ve put together a quick guide to help keep your pets safe while you celebrate.

Dangerous Blooms: Flowers Toxic to Cats and Dogs

While flowers are a popular gift for Mother’s Day, certain blooms can pose serious threats to our pets. Here’s a quick guide on which flowers to avoid and what to keep in mind when gifting floral arrangements.

Flowers Toxic to Cats:

• Lilies – All types of lilies, including Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and day lilies, are extremely toxic to cats. Even small amounts of pollen or water from a vase can cause kidney failure.
• Daffodils – These spring flowers contain toxins that can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, kidney damage.
• Tulips – While not as deadly as lilies, tulips can still cause digestive upset, lethargy, and drooling in cats.
• Chrysanthemums – These flowers can lead to gastrointestinal upset and lethargy in cats if eaten.

Flowers Toxic to Dogs:

• Lilies – While more dangerous to cats, certain species like the Easter lily can also cause gastrointestinal issues in dogs, although they are generally less lethal.
• Daffodils – In dogs, the bulbs of daffodils can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and, in rare cases, heart arrhythmias if ingested.
• Tulips – Tulip bulbs, in particular, can be harmful to dogs, leading to drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Azaleas – These beautiful plants are highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and potentially severe heart arrhythmias.

Chocolate: An Indulgence for Us, Toxic for Dogs

Chocolate is a classic treat for us, but it’s highly toxic to dogs. Theobromine, found in chocolate, can cause vomiting, seizures, and even death—especially in larger quantities of dark chocolate. Did you know that dog-safe “chocolate” treats are made from Carob, not real chocolate? Always store chocolate gifts securely out of your dog’s reach, and if your dog ingests chocolate, contact your vet immediately, providing details of the type and amount consumed.

If you’re unsure whether your dog has ingested a harmful amount of chocolate, you can use the chocolate toxicity calculator provided by Vets Now. This online tool allows you to input your dog’s weight and the type and amount of chocolate consumed, giving you an idea of whether medical attention is necessary. However, always err on the side of caution and contact your vet as soon as possible if your dog consumes chocolate.

Animal Poison Line: A Resource for Out-of-Hours Emergencies

If your pet has ingested something potentially toxic, the Animal Poison Line is a fantastic resource, particularly for out-of-hours emergencies. The service can provide immediate advice on the severity of the situation and guide you on the necessary steps to take.

The Animal Poison Line can help you avoid unnecessary trips to out-of-hours emergency vets by offering expert advice on whether your pet needs to be seen immediately or if you can monitor their condition safely at home. If you need to seek veterinary care later, the consultation fee may even be refunded if your vet uses the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) for further guidance.

For more information, you can visit the Animal Poison Line website here: Animal Poison Line

Hidden Dangers You May Not Expect

Candle Caution:

Candles, though often used to create a pleasant atmosphere, can become a fire hazard if knocked over by curious paws. Be sure to place them safely out of reach.

Scented Surprises:

While candles and essential oils add fragrance, some essential oils—like eucalyptus and lavender—are poisonous to cats. Avoid using essential oils in places where your pets might be exposed.

Gift Wrap Woes:

Pets love to play with ribbons and wrapping paper, but these can cause choking or blockages if swallowed. Be sure to clean up after unwrapping gifts and contact your vet immediately if you are concerned your pet has swallowed something they shouldn’t have.

What to Do if Your Pet Ingests a Toxic Plant or Food

If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic flower, plant, or food item, it’s crucial to act quickly. Contact your vet immediately and provide them with details about the plant or food your pet has consumed. Time is of the essence, so don’t hesitate to seek help.

Safe Flower Alternatives

If you’re planning to give flowers this Mother’s Day, consider choosing pet-safe options such as:

• • Sunflowers
  • Roses
  • Carnations

These flowers are generally safe for both cats and dogs, allowing you to enjoy a beautiful bouquet without worrying about your pet’s health.

Please note: This list is not exhaustive. Many plants, flowers, and shrubs can be toxic to pets, so always check before bringing new plants into your home or garden.

Contact Us

At Portland Vets, we are here to support you and your pets. If you have any concerns, feel free to contact us. In addition to our normal opening hours, clients and non-clients have access to our extended emergency service at Portland Vets East Grinstead, until 10pm Monday to Friday.

 

What to do in an emergency

 

Stay safe and enjoy celebrating Mother’s Day, whether you’re a mother of two legs or four!

 

 

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