What Kind of Flowers Should You Choose as an Offering for Pets (Dogs & Cats)?
When a beloved pet such as a dog or cat passes away, you might wonder if there are specific rules or etiquette for choosing flowers to offer in their memory, especially compared to offerings for humans.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to choose flowers to honor your cherished pet and discuss some important considerations.
No Strict Rules for Pet Memorial Flowers
There are no set rules or customs for flowers to offer in memory of a pet. If you’ve created a gravesite for your pet at a cemetery, it’s a good idea to select flowers that align with the religious or cultural practices of that cemetery or your family.
For home memorials, such as placing flowers near a photo or altar, you’re free to choose any flowers you like. If you’re offering flowers for a friend or family member’s pet, soft, gentle colors are generally a thoughtful choice.
Recommended Flowers for Pet Memorials
While there aren’t strict rules, here are some tips for selecting appropriate flowers for a pet memorial:
Flowers that Match the Pet’s Personality
Many people choose flowers that reflect the personality or image of their pet. For example:
- Bright and cheerful pets: Yellow or orange flowers may represent their lively energy.
- Gentle and calm pets: Pale or pastel-colored flowers can evoke their tender spirit.
Flowers in Soft, Gentle Colors
When offering flowers for a friend or family member’s pet, arrangements featuring white or other soft tones are often appreciated.
Although flowers like roses or lilies with thorns or strong fragrances are less commonly used for human memorials, they are not strictly inappropriate for pets. However, avoiding them can be a safer choice.
Preserved Flowers
Preserved flowers are ideal for those who prefer long-lasting memorials. They require minimal maintenance and make wonderful gifts. Compact designs are especially convenient, as they can be displayed anywhere without taking up too much space.
Be Mindful of Flower Types if Other Pets Are Present
While there are no strict rules for choosing pet memorial flowers, if the household includes other pets or newly adopted animals, it’s important to select safe flower types. Certain flowers can pose health risks to dogs and cats.
For Households with Dogs
The following plants and flowers can be harmful to dogs if ingested, potentially causing vomiting or digestive issues:
- Ivy
- Pothos
- Monstera
- Morning Glory
- Hydrangea
- Tulips
- Lilies
- Poison Ivy
- Holly
- Hemp
- Ferns
- Fatsia
If a dog is present, choose a safer variety of flowers or display them out of reach.
For Households with Cats
Cats are also sensitive to certain plants. These flowers can harm their health if touched or consumed:
- Lilies
- Baby’s Breath
- Hydrangea
- Tulips
- Hyacinths
- Cyclamen
- Poinsettia
- Azaleas
- Chrysanthemums
- Roses
- Impatiens
- Carnations
Cats’ ability to climb and access high areas increases the risk of accidental contact or ingestion, so it’s better to avoid these flowers entirely. If your cat comes into contact with or ingests any of these, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Pet Memorial Flowers by Parterre in Iwate Prefecture
Parterre offers a variety of flowers for memorial purposes, including bouquets, arrangements, and preserved flowers tailored to meet different needs. For those hesitant to use flowers due to concerns about other pets, options like herbariums are also available.
Orders can be placed at any of the following locations or online:
- Kitakami Main Store Parterre: 1-1-5 Tsutsumigaoka, Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture
- Morioka Motomiya Store Parterre: 1-2-3 Motomiya, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture
- Esashi Store Fleur Marche: 7-2 Nishiodori, Esashi, Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture (inside Super San-E)
- Choose Parterre to find the perfect flower arrangement to honor the memory of your cherished pet.
- この記事をシェアする