CAT OWNERS are being urged to take care if they are buying lilies for their mums this Mother’s Day as they can be fatal to our four-legged feline friends.
The warning comes from the RSPCA which is urging people to buy pet-friendly florals.
RSPCA animal welfare expert Lauren Bennett said: “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.”
Maybe choose some alternative blooms
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.”
What are the symptoms of pet poisoning?
Signs that pets have been poisoned vary and can include: depression, lack of appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea, breathing difficulties and bad breath, twitching and 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 said.
See the Veterinary Poisons Information Service for more information –
Meanwhile, the RSPCA is urging people to have their say on the future of animal welfare – as part of Animal Futures: The Big Conversation. Members of the public can have their say on the RSPCA website until April 6.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give.
