Holiday flowers and plants that are safe for pets

Holiday flowers make a house feel ready for guests, including the ones with four legs. Some of the most popular holiday plants are toxic to cats and dogs, and some are perfectly safe. This list follows the ASPCA's plant database.

Which holiday plants are dangerous for pets?

• Lilies, for cats. True lilies and daylilies are the most dangerous plant for cats: a little pollen or a sip of the vase water can cause kidney failure. Keep them out of any home with a cat.
• Amaryllis. Toxic to cats and dogs, especially the bulb. It causes vomiting, drooling and stomach pain.
• Holly. The berries and leaves cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs.
• Mistletoe. It upsets the stomach, and larger amounts can be more serious.
• Paperwhites and other daffodils. Toxic to cats and dogs, especially the bulbs.
• Poinsettia. Only mildly toxic: it usually causes mild irritation, but is best kept out of reach.

Which holiday plants are safe for pets?

• Christmas cactus. Non-toxic to cats and dogs, although eating a lot of any plant can upset a stomach.
• Orchids. Butterfly orchids (Phalaenopsis) are non-toxic.
• Roses. Non-toxic; just watch the thorns.
• Sunflowers and gerbera daisies. Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

What should you do if your pet eats a plant?

Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. It helps to know the name of the plant, so keep the tag or take a photo.

Sending flowers to a home with pets?

Mention it when you order and ask for an arrangement without lilies. A butterfly orchid is a long-lasting gift that is safe for cats and dogs.