Expert warns cat owners not to buy lilies this Mother’s Day
“Here’s why buying lilies can be fatal for felines,” says RSPCA expert
An animal welfare expert has warned people buying flowers for Mother’s Day this Sunday to ensure they purchase pet-friendly florals to avoid poisoning much-loved pets.
RSPCA animal welfare expert Lauren Bennett has issued the warning ahead of Mothering Sunday (30 March) to help pet owners avoid an unexpected trip to the vets this weekend.
Lauren says, “Flowers are a lovely gift for Mother’s Day, and I, like many people, love receiving flowers whatever the occasion. But sadly some flowers and plants can be toxic to our pets, so it’s important to avoid these.
“Lilies can be a particular problem because they are so popular at this time of year, but people are not always aware of just how dangerous they are to cats. Cats can actually die from ingesting even small amounts of petals from lilies, and the leaves, pollen, and water from the vase can be deadly to them too.
“It is very important that we get the message across that lilies can be lethal to cats and that even a small amount could kill them. Even cutting the stamens out once they have opened is not enough. A small smudge of pollen can be transferred to a cat’s fur, and once a cat starts cleaning themselves, they can quickly fall ill.”
But the public can do their bit to help keep pets safe this Mother’s Day by choosing a different bouquet instead.
Lauren added: “Cats can really suffer after lily poisoning, and it is so distressing to see and heartbreaking for pet owners.
“Thankfully, it’s really easy for the public to do their bit and help. We, of course, want to treat all the mums out there this Mother’s Day, but if they are cat mums too, please do not buy them lilies.”
She adds: “Other flowers such as daffodils, tulips, holly and hyacinths can also be toxic to cats and dogs. However, even non-toxic plants may cause some stomach upsets if ingested, so it’s always important to remember to place flowers out of reach of pets.”
The RSPCA also reports that chocolate poisoning is the most commonly reported type of animal poisoning – so the charity is reminding people to keep Mother’s Day treats out of reach of cats and dogs.
Lauren says: “If you suspect that your pet has eaten chocolate, don’t delay in calling your vet first for advice on bringing them into the practice. Your vet will want to know how much chocolate your pet has eaten and what type. If possible, keep any labels and have your pet’s weight to hand.”
Signs that your pet could have been poisoned vary and can include any of the following:
- depression
- lack of appetite
- vomiting and diarrhoea
- breathing difficulties and bad breath
- twitching
- seizures.
“Ahead of the Mother’s Day celebrations, and as we all strive to create a better world for every animal, we urge pet owners to ensure the occasion is as pet-friendly as possible and share this advice with others to help us spread the word,” Lauren adds.
For more information on toxic items and products, see the Veterinary Poisons Information Service.
Meanwhile, the RSPCA is urging people to have their say on the future of animal welfare as part of Animal Futures: The Big Conversation
