Warning issued to anyone buying flowers for Valentine’s Day

A vet has issued a warning to anyone considering buying flowers this

With the annual day of love just around the corner, people will soon be making a last-minute dash to the to buy cards, chocolates and wine.

Flowers are another popular Valentine’s Day gift, with an estimated stems of flowers bought around the world every year.

However, Sean McCormack, head vet at , has issued a word of caution to anyone planning on buying flowers for a pet owner.

Many common flowers and plants can be highly toxic if ingested by – or even cats, with certain species known to cause discomfort or, in severe cases, serious health issues in pets.

Here are the flowers and plants you’ll need to steer clear of to prevent any unwanted trips to the vet.

Carnations

Carnations are widely available at most supermarkets but are best avoided if you’re buying for a pet owner. 

They are mildly toxic to dogs, and if ingested, carnations can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. 

“The specific irritants causing this toxicity are unknown, whether in the petals or step, but it’s best not to take any chances,” Sean said.

Lilies

Lilies are another popular flower to avoid this Valentine’s Day. 

Toxic to both dogs and cats, ingestion can even be fatal in some cases, with kidney failure, seizures, slowed heart rate and vomiting among the symptoms.

“Different species of lilies cause varying symptoms,” Sean said. “For example, some contain insoluble oxalate crystals that can severely irritate the intestinal system.”

Daffodils

Daffodils are highly toxic to dogs, with the bulbs especially harmful due to containing lycorine and other dangerous compounds. 

Ingesting these compounds can lead to severe cardiac symptoms when consumed in large quantities.

Roses

Roses are a Valentine’s Day staple, and fortunately, they are not toxic to pets and depending on how they are prepared, roses can still be gifted to loved ones with pets.

The main risk comes from the thorns, which can physically injure a dog’s mouth, gums, throat, and digestive tract. 

Such injuries can lead to infections if untreated.

If roses that have been dethorned have been ingested, particularly by dogs with sensitive stomachs, they may experience mild symptoms. 

These symptoms should resolve within a day, but it’s always wise to consult a vet if concerned.

Tulips

Tulips are mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. 

“The bulbs of tulips contain tulipalin A and B, compounds that can irritate a dog’s stomach lining,” Sean explained. 

“Symptoms may become more severe if a large quantity of flowers is consumed.”

If ingested, tulips can cause drooling, tremors, breathing difficulties and vomiting.

Rounding out the list of flowers and plants to avoid this Valentine’s Day are Azaleas, Hyacinths, Baby’s breath, Amaryllis and Chrysanthemums. 

If your dog or cat has ingested any of these plants, ensure you monitor them and speak to your veterinarian for advice immediately.