Are Easter lilies toxic to cats?

Yes — Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) are extremely toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. All parts of the plant are dangerous including the pollen, petals, leaves, and even the water in the vase. If your cat has come into contact with a lily, contact your vet immediately.

Are daffodils toxic to dogs?

Yes — daffodils are toxic to both dogs and cats. The bulbs are the most toxic part but all parts of the plant contain lycorine, which causes vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and in severe cases heart problems. Keep daffodil bulbs and cut flowers away from pets.

Are tulips safe for cats and dogs?

No — tulips are toxic to cats and dogs. The highest concentration of toxins is in the bulb. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and in severe cases breathing difficulties. Keep tulip bulbs stored securely out of reach of pets.

Are hyacinths dangerous for pets?

Yes — hyacinths are toxic to cats and dogs. Like tulips, the bulbs are most dangerous and cause intense vomiting and diarrhoea. The sap can also cause skin irritation. Keep hyacinth bulbs and plants out of reach of pets.

🐣 Easter Safety Alert

Easter Plants That Are Toxic to Cats & Dogs

Easter is one of the most dangerous times of year for pets. Lilies, daffodils, tulips and hyacinths fill our homes and gardens — and most are highly toxic to cats and dogs.

🔍 Check any plant now

🚨 If your pet has eaten a plant, contact your vet immediately. Animal Poison Line: 01202 509000 (paid service)

The most dangerous Easter plants

Easter Lily

Lilium longiflorum

🚨 Severe

🐱 Cats — extremely toxic 🐶 Dogs — moderate risk

The most dangerous Easter plant for cats. Even tiny amounts — including pollen on fur that is then licked off — can cause acute kidney failure. All parts are toxic including the water in the vase.

Symptoms: vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney failure

Check lily varieties →

Daffodil

Narcissus spp.

🚨 Severe

🐱 Cats — toxic 🐶 Dogs — toxic

One of the most common Easter plants in UK gardens. The bulbs are the most toxic part, but all parts including stems and flowers contain lycorine. Daffodil water in a vase is also toxic.

Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, abdominal pain, heart problems

Check daffodil varieties →

Tulip

Tulipa spp.

⚠ Moderate

🐱 Cats — toxic 🐶 Dogs — toxic

Popular in Easter bouquets. The bulbs contain the highest concentration of toxins (tulipalin A and B), but all parts are harmful. Dogs are particularly at risk from digging up and chewing bulbs.

Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties

Check tulip varieties →

Hyacinth

Hyacinthus orientalis

⚠ Moderate

🐱 Cats — toxic 🐶 Dogs — toxic

Often given as Easter gifts in full bloom. Bulbs are most toxic. The sap can also cause skin irritation when handling. Keep indoor hyacinth pots well out of reach.

Symptoms: intense vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, breathing difficulties

Check hyacinth varieties →

Roses

Rosa spp.

✓ Generally safe

🐱 Cats — safe 🐶 Dogs — safe

Good news — roses are generally safe for cats and dogs. The thorns are a physical hazard but the plant itself is not toxic. A pet-friendly alternative to lilies in Easter arrangements.

Note: thorns can cause mouth or paw injuries — trim before displaying

Check rose varieties →

Sunflower

Helianthus annuus

✓ Generally safe

🐱 Cats — safe 🐶 Dogs — safe

Sunflowers are non-toxic to cats and dogs — a bright, cheerful and pet-safe Easter flower. A great substitute if you want colourful arrangements without the risk.

Note: not toxic but may cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large quantities

Check on PetFlora →

Keeping your pet safe this Easter

🏠

Keep lilies out entirely

If you have cats, the safest option is to not have lilies in your home at all — not even in a room the cat can't access, as pollen spreads.

🌱

Store bulbs securely

Easter bulbs left in bags or on shelves are tempting for dogs to chew. Store them in sealed containers in a cupboard out of reach.

💐

Check bouquets before buying

Many mixed bouquets contain lilies or daffodils. Ask your florist for a pet-safe arrangement, or check every flower on PetFlora before bringing it home.

📞

Act fast if unsure

Don't wait for symptoms. If you think your pet has eaten any plant, call your vet straight away. Early treatment makes a huge difference.

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