Pet-safe flowers perfect for a Mother's Day bouquet

Do you plan on getting your mom flowers for Mother's Day? If she has a cat or dog, don't pick any blooms in her favourite colours. If she has a pet, finding the perfect bouquet involves an extra layer of mindfulness.

Many commonly gifted flowers, such as tulips and lilies, can be toxic to pets. The Ontario SPCA warns that a pet eating "even small amounts may lead to cases of upset stomach or vomiting, particularly if the plant or flower is toxic".

However, there are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic options to choose from. If you're looking to surprise your mom, we've compiled a guide to help you select the perfect, pet-safe bouquet this Mother's Day.

Roses

Roses, the classic symbol of love and gratitude, are a beautiful and safe option for households with furry companions because they are non-toxic. However, you should be aware of the thorny issues—quite literally. 

The sharp thorns on the stems can cause scratches or more serious injuries if your pet decides to play with or chew on them. To keep your pets safe, opt for thorn-free varieties or carefully remove the thorns yourself before displaying the bouquet.

Gerbera Daisies

Bright, cheerful, and available in a rainbow of vibrant colours, Gerbera daisies are a fantastic choice for a pet-safe bouquet. These popular flowers are completely non-toxic to both cats and dogs, so you can enjoy their happy presence without worrying about your four-legged friends.

Orchids

Elegant and sophisticated, orchids are generally safe for pets and can add a refined touch to any Mother's Day celebration. That said, it's always a good idea to verify the specific variety of orchid you're purchasing. While most common types are harmless, a few rare kinds can be problematic for animals, so a quick check ensures complete peace of mind.

Snapdragons

With their tall, eye-catching spikes of brightly coloured, uniquely shaped flowers, snapdragons offer a distinctive and safe choice for homes with pets. Their vertical growth adds visual interest to any floral arrangement, and their non-toxic nature means you won't have to worry if a curious cat or dog gets too close.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are a perfect, pet-friendly option for Mother's Day, as they symbolize adoration and loyalty. Their large, sunny blooms are guaranteed to brighten up any room and bring a smile to everyone's face, including your pets, since they are completely non-toxic.

Keeping pets safe

While choosing pet-safe flowers is a critical first step, always keep floral arrangements out of pets' reach and monitor for any signs of accidental ingestion. The Ontario SPCA warns, "Even safe plants can produce minor stomach upset if ingested."

Understanding the importance of pet safety, CAA has partnered with Pet Plus Us to offer comprehensive pet insurance options. This partnership can help ensure that you and your furry friends are well taken care of, and help provide peace of mind in knowing your pets are protected against unexpected health issues. CAA Members receive a 13.5 percent discount on Pet Plus Us pet insurance*.

*CAA Members receive a preferred rate of 13.5% off. Non-members receive a preferred rate of 9% off.

The information herein is summarized. All Pet Insurance plans have limitations and exclusions. Specific products, features, coverage limits, rates, and discounts may vary by province, eligibility, and are subject to change. Medical Conditions that are noted, symptomatic or diagnosed prior to enrollment, or during a waiting period are pre-existing to Coverage and not eligible for reimbursement. This advertisement is an outline only, the actual policy issued Terms and Conditions will prevail.

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