Why Flower Safety Matters for Cat Owners

Cats are naturally curious. Whether it’s batting at petals, nibbling on leaves, or sniffing around arrangements, most felines can’t resist exploring a bouquet. The challenge is that not all flowers are safe for cats. Some can cause mild tummy upset, while others—like lilies—can be life-threatening.

We once had a client from Gunnison who ordered a sympathy bouquet but asked us specifically to avoid lilies because she had heard how dangerous they are to cats. She was right—lilies are extremely toxic. Instead, we created a stunning mix of roses, sunflowers, and snapdragons that her cats could safely coexist with.

Are Roses Actually Toxic to Cats?

The Good News

The simple answer is no—roses themselves are not poisonous to cats. That’s one reason why roses are a favorite for pet-friendly homes. Compared to highly toxic flowers like tulips or daffodils, roses are a much safer option.

Many of our Montrose customers with pets choose roses as their go-to flower for birthdays, anniversaries, and everyday arrangements. They love the peace of mind of knowing the bouquet looks beautiful and won’t harm their cat if a pet sneaks a sniff or even a small nibble.

The Hidden Risks

While roses aren’t toxic, that doesn’t mean they’re entirely risk-free.

• Thorns: Cats can accidentally scratch their mouths or paws if they chew on thorny stems.
• Pesticides: Roses bought outside a florist shop may have been treated with chemicals that are harmful if ingested.
• Overeating: Even safe plants can upset a cat’s stomach if they chew too much.

At Hosanna Floral, we often remove thorns from rose stems before placing them in arrangements, especially if a customer mentions they have cats or young children. We also source our roses from trusted suppliers who grow them without harsh pesticides, so you can enjoy them safely at home.

Flowers That Are Toxic to Cats

If you’re a cat owner, it’s just as important to know which flowers to avoid as it is to know which ones are safe.

• Lilies: Extremely toxic, even small amounts can cause kidney failure in cats.
• Tulips and Hyacinths: Especially dangerous in bulb form.
• Daffodils: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe symptoms.
• Chrysanthemums: Often used in fall bouquets, but toxic to pets.
• Baby’s Breath: Frequently used as filler in bouquets but can upset a cat’s stomach.

A bride from Ouray once asked us to design her wedding florals without lilies after learning how dangerous they can be. We created her arrangements with lisianthus, roses, and eucalyptus instead. Not only were they safe, but they were also breathtakingly elegant.

Cat-Safe Alternatives for Your Arrangements

If you want to keep fresh flowers in your home without worry, here are some great alternatives that are safe for cats:

• Roses: Classic and timeless.
• Sunflowers: Cheerful and sturdy.
• Snapdragons: Colorful and tall, perfect for adding dimension.
• Orchids: Elegant and pet-safe.
• Zinnias: Vibrant and long-lasting.
• Gerbera Daisies: Bright and cheerful without the toxicity risk of traditional daisies.

We had a customer from Crested Butte who wanted to surprise her friend with a bouquet but was worried about her friend’s two cats. We put together a custom arrangement of roses, zinnias, and orchids. She later told us it was one of the most thoughtful gifts she’d ever given because it combined beauty with care for her friend’s pets.

Tips for Keeping Cats Safe Around Flowers



Even with safe flowers like roses, there are a few precautions you can take to ensure your cat stays healthy:

• Remove Thorns: Ask your florist to trim off thorns before arranging roses.
• Choose Florist-Sourced Flowers: Avoid store-bought flowers that may have been treated with harmful chemicals.
• Keep Arrangements Out of Reach: Place flowers on higher shelves or in areas cats don’t usually climb.
• Supervise New Arrangements: Pay attention to your cat’s behavior when you first bring flowers home.

One of our regulars in Telluride told us she started placing her floral arrangements in enclosed glass vases. Not only did it keep her cats from chewing, but it also gave her flowers a chic, modern display.

Hosanna Floral’s Commitment to Pet-Friendly Bouquets

At Hosanna Floral, we know flowers are about more than beauty—they’re about love, thoughtfulness, and care for everyone in your home, including pets. That’s why we:

• Offer custom arrangements designed specifically for cat-safe homes.
• Provide same day flower delivery across Montrose, Ridgway, Ouray, Telluride, Gunnison, and Crested Butte.
• Use trusted suppliers to ensure flowers are fresh and free from harmful pesticides.

Whether you’re ordering wedding flowers, anniversary bouquets, or just a little something to brighten your home, we’ll make sure you have options that bring beauty without worry.

Final Thoughts: Are Roses Toxic to Cats?

So, are roses toxic to cats? No, roses are safe—but they should still be handled with care. Remove thorns, avoid pesticide-treated flowers, and watch how much your cat chews. Compared to truly toxic blooms like lilies, roses are one of the best flowers you can choose as a cat parent.

At Hosanna Floral, we’re here to help you enjoy beautiful, safe arrangements. Whether you need same day delivery or a custom bouquet built with your pets in mind, we’d love to serve you. Visit our Montrose flower shop or order online today for flowers that are as thoughtful as they are stunning.