Agenda Floral
ESDownload

Guides · Spain

Which flowers to give to someone with cats or dogs

Before giving flowers ask whether there are cats or dogs at home. Consider gerberas, roses or a Phalaenopsis orchid after confirming their identity and checking everything included in the gift. ASPCA lists them as non-toxic to both animals. That does not mean eating them cannot cause upset. For a home with cats avoid Lilium and Hemerocallis lilies, including in mixed bouquets.

Coral-orange gerbera against a dark green background
Colour and shape vary between cultivars. Use it as a visual reference rather than to identify a plant.

Three options to start with

A gerbera could suit someone who likes colourful flowers with a simple shape. The ASPCA entry identifies Gerbera jamesonii. Ask the florist to confirm the plant because the name daisy is used for different plants.

For a bouquet consider roses from the genus Rosa. If you prefer a plant we suggest a Phalaenopsis orchid, provided the recipient wants to look after one. ASPCA lists both groups as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Check the final arrangement before deciding.

Check every flower and piece of foliage

The main flower’s classification is not enough to assess a mixed bouquet. Ask for the names of every flower and any filler foliage. Check their identity with a competent source for the animal living at home. If a component cannot be identified ask for it to be replaced before accepting the order.

Ask about the container and packaging too. As a practical suggestion deliver the gift without loose decorations and agree where it will go. If the animal tends to chew plants and there is no suitable place, ask the recipient whether they would prefer another gift.

For homes with cats, avoid Lilium and Hemerocallis

The FDA advises avoiding these lilies in homes with cats. The risk includes pollen and vase water. Do not choose them for a mixed bouquet or rely on putting it on a high shelf.

Common names can be confusing. Other plants called lilies also pose risks, even if they differ. Confirm the botanical name rather than assuming an alternative is safe just because it is not Lilium.

How to explain it when ordering

You could say “The bouquet is for a home with a cat. I would like to consider gerberas or roses and need the names of the foliage and any filler flowers too. Please do not include Lilium or Hemerocallis or substitute components without checking with me.” Adapt this sample request for a home with a dog.

Before paying confirm what will actually be delivered. For a remote order ask for the details in writing. That way the recipient can also find out what is in the bouquet.

Non-toxic does not mean edible

ASPCA warns that eating plant material can cause digestive upset even when a plant is listed as non-toxic. That classification does not assess the packaging or the rest of the arrangement either. The gift should not be offered as food for the animal.

If you suspect a cat has been exposed to lilies call a veterinarian immediately, even if the cat still seems well. Contact a veterinarian for other suspected poisoning too. This guide helps with choosing a gift and does not replace veterinary care. Catalogue pictures are illustrative and should not be used to identify a plant in an emergency.

Which flowers to choose

We suggest flowers that may suit each occasion. Where a custom is documented, we explain it separately. For a personal gift you can choose another flower if you know the recipient will like it more.

Frequently asked questions

Can I give roses to someone with a cat?

ASPCA lists species from the genus Rosa as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Confirm that genus and check the other flowers and foliage in the bouquet. The animal should not be allowed to eat it.

Do all daisies have the same classification?

You cannot tell from the common name. The option we cite is Gerbera jamesonii. Ask for identification before applying that entry’s classification to a different flower.

Is a bouquet without lilies suitable for a home with pets?

You still need to check the other plants and agree where it will go. Removing Lilium does not establish that the rest of the gift is suitable for the cat or dog in that home.

What if a cat drinks water from a vase containing lilies?

Contact a veterinarian immediately and explain which plants were in the vase. The FDA includes this exposure among lily risks for cats. Do not wait for symptoms.

Sources and what they support

  • ASPCA Poison Control · Gerber Daisy

    Lists Gerbera jamesonii as non-toxic to cats and dogs. This identification does not establish safety for every plant called a daisy or for a complete bouquet.

  • ASPCA Poison Control · Rose

    Lists Rosa species as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The entry does not assess decorations or other parts of the gift.

  • ASPCA Poison Control · Phalaenopsis Orchid

    Lists Phalaenopsis as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The name orchid alone does not identify every species.

  • ASPCA Poison Control · Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

    Warns that eating any plant material can cause digestive upset. Recommends identifying plants by name and contacting a veterinarian if poisoning is suspected.

  • FDA · Lirios y gatos

    Explains the serious risk of Lilium and Hemerocallis to cats, including pollen and vase water. Advises avoiding them in homes with cats and seeking immediate veterinary help after suspected exposure. Distinguishes the risks of other plants called lilies.

How we put these guides together

We consult institutional sources to check dates and customs. For plant facts, we use horticultural sources. Our gift ideas start with each flower’s appearance and the recipient’s taste. A shop link documents a particular offer. It does not prove that a flower is popular or part of a tradition. We keep adding to this selection rather than claiming to cover every species.

Read our editorial criteria

Spotted something we should review? Contact Agenda Floral.

Keep exploring