Paragon Veterinary Group has teamed up with Carlisle florists to promote pet-friendly bouquets this Valentine’s Day.
Some flowers can make pets ill, especially lilies which are toxic to cats, says vet Laura Binnie.
Vets at Paragon’s Dalston surgery recently treated two kittens for possible lily poisoning. Now the practice has produced stickers to go on pet-friendly bouquets in a bid to raise awareness.
“We are really pleased to be part of it,” says Stacey Osgood, a florist at Linda’s Flowers in Denton Holme, Carlisle.
“Our dogs and cats are family members, so it is important people know what to buy. Just ask us, we’re here to help.”
Ann Smith, owner of Baytree Florists in Denton Holme, said: “I think it’s a really good idea, the stickers will make people think.
“One of the questions we always ask customers is whether the recipient has a cat. You can still have a lovely fresh bouquet, just ask the staff.”
Paragon’s Laura Binnie said: “Many people are not aware that lilies are toxic to cats and can be fatal.
“Some people think only the pollen is a problem, but the whole plant is poisonous to cats, including the water which the flowers have been standing in.
“My advice to cat owners is not to have lilies at home. The good news this Valentine’s Day is that roses are safe!
“If you have any suspicions that your cat has come in contact with lilies, call your vet straight away.”
Jade Williams from Morton is the owner of mischievous kittens Chester and Charlie who had to visit Paragon after touching lilies.
“I bought the lilies unaware that they were poisonous to cats,” said Jade. “The kittens got into the dining room and when I walked in, they were both on the table and covered in lily pollen. We just rang the vets straight away.”
The kittens were made to be sick, given fluids and blood tests and kept in the surgery for two days.
“Now they are absolutely fine,” says Jade. “I had no idea lilies were a problem until I did some research. People need to know about it.”
Paragon has surgeries at Dalston, Wetheral and Newbiggin near Penrith. Get in touch with us if you have any concerns.