Pet lovers will want to choose plants that are safe for their pet dog or cat if it nibbles on the leaves.  Knowing which flowers and plants are safe for cats and dogs will help you keep your pets safe.

Outdoor flowers that are safe for pets:

  • Marigolds – These hearty flowers grow in shades of yellow, gold, and orange-red. They will not harm your pup or cat even if it nibbles on them. They are easy to care for and will regrow blooms if you pinch off spent ones.
  • Sunflower – Large bright yellow blooms on tall green stems are also safe if your dog or cat eats some of them. These flowers dry out in the fall and the seeds drop to the ground. Your pet may try to eat the seeds but don’t worry because they will not harm him.
  • Coral Bells – These beautiful flowers are low on the ground and may be attractive to dogs and cats who like to eat a variety of outdoor plants. They range in colors from green to orange and can even be black.
  • Pineapple Sage – Hummingbirds are attracted to these flowers because of their sweet smell. Your dog may also decide to try them, but they are pet-friendly and will not harm your pet.
  • Camellia – These lovely pink flowers grow on shrubs year after year. They are pet-safe. This lovely flower looks similar to a rose and when they open, they have bright yellow centers.
  • Fuchsias – Fuchsias grow in red, deep pink, light pink, and purple. Pets may be attracted to them, but they are safe if it nibbles on them. These bright pink flowers hang down and are just right to plant in hanging baskets containers for outdoor landscaping.
  • Snapdragons – These beautiful flowers grow in colors ranging from yellow to red. They have long stems and grow multiple blooms on one stem.
  • Nasturtiums – Nasturtiums have a wonderful scent and they are edible to humans as well as pets. They grow in many colors like orange, pink, and red and are large flowers that are several inches wide.
  • Forsythia – These bright yellow flowers grow on bushes and bloom each year in early spring.
  • Pansies – These flowers are safe and edible by pets and humans. They grow in many different colors and bloom in cooler weather.

Some other plants and flowers are safe for pets. Some of them are herbs that add beauty to your landscaping while also providing fresh herbs for cooking. You only need to step outdoors to get fresh herbs with these plants.

Herbs your pet may ingest that are safe:

  • Lavender – Known for its delightful scent and attractive purple color, lavender is one of the best flower herbs to include in your outdoor landscaping. If your dog nibbles on it, lavender has a calming effect on pets.
  • Dill – Dill is a weed that spreads and will probably need to be cut back. It does not flower, but its feathery growth can add interest to your outdoor landscaping. It is also used in cooking.
  • Purple Basil – This plant adds color in any area and it will not harm your pet if it is eaten. 
  • Creeping Thyme – This herb flowers with small purple blooms. It is low-lying and is safe if eaten by your pet. Humans often use thyme in cooking.
  • Rosemary – This plant is safe for pets and is often used in cooking. It does not flower but has unique greenery that looks good in outdoor landscaping. 

Avoid these plants that are toxic to dogs and cats:

Toxic plants can make your pet very sick and even kill him. Don’t assume that your pet doesn’t eat plants because one small bite can have serious effects. Here are some of the most toxic plants and flowers to pets:

  • Lilies – All types of lilies are toxic to pets and some can be fatal. Some dogs like to dig up the bulbs which are very dangerous if eaten.
  • Lily of the Valley – These delicate little bell-shaped flowers have a wonderful scent but they are toxic to cats and dogs. An animal that has eaten them may have digestive problems.
  • Chrysanthemums and Daisies – These toxic flowers can cause digestive and nervous problems to your pet if eaten.
  • Rhododendron – Although the rhododendron is a lovely flower, it can be toxic to your pet. It may cause trouble breathing, digestive issues, and changes in blood pressure.
  • Cyclamen – Toxicity to dogs and cats can affect red blood cells and cause heart problems.
  • Daffodils – These flowers can cause digestive problems, heart issues, and trouble breathing if ingested by your pet.
  • Tulips – Every part of the plant is toxic, especially the bulbs. Some dogs like to dig them up. Eating tulips can cause increased heart rate, breathing troubles, and digestive issues.
  • Hyacinth – Toxic to pets and cause digestive problems as well as heart and lung disorders.

As you can see, planting many common flowers can have a very negative effect on your pet.

How do I know which plants to choose when I own a pet?

Use the above list to make a beautiful garden plan. Be sure to tell your landscape construction company that you do not want any plants that may be unsafe for your pet.

There are many wonderful varieties in the “Safe” category from which to choose. You can have different species that have unique colors and appearances by choosing from this list. There are many choices of safe plants for pets.

Are there toxic indoor plants that can harm pets?

There are also toxic indoor plants that can have a serious effect on your pet. An easy approach for inside and outside your house are to use only safe for pet plants.

Signs that your pet ate a poisonous plant:

The first sign of a toxic reaction is vomiting and refusing to eat. You will notice a different than usual behavior in your cat or dog. Trouble breathing and seizures may also occur.

If you’re looking for pet-friendly plants for your garden, check out Project Landscape. They are a reliable landscaping company that will ensure your garden has only safe plants for your furry friend. Don’t risk planting something that could harm your pet, trust Project Landscape to create a beautiful and safe outdoor space for both you and your pet. Visit their website at https://www.projectlandscape.ca/ to learn more.