Mother’s Day is just days away but a popular gift could be a big problem for some other occupants of your home.

Flowers are a classic present for mums at this time of year, but some varieties can be harmful to household pets, particularly cats and dogs.

Before Sunday, an expert has advised which flowers to avoid as a pet owner.

Sean McCormack, head vet at Tails.com, has warned that some common flowers and plants could be harmful to cats and dogs if they are ingested.

Though pets are unlikely to consume entire boucquets of flowers, McCormack urged gift givers to take care when buying their presents, as certain species can cause mild discomfort even in small amounts.

Dogs and cats are naturally curious and may ingest flowers as they inspect unfamiliar objects in the home.

One of the top varieties to avoid is hydrangeas, a much-loved favourite available from florists.

In Japan, they are used to make herbal tea while a type of hydrangea is the official state wildflower of Alabama in the US.

However, they contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release small amounts of cyanide when chewed or ingested.

While a small may only cause mild discomfort, consuming larger quantities could lead to more serious effects. 

If ingested, hydrangeas can cause diarrhoea, lethargy, vomiting or loss of appetite.

Native to the Mediterranean, another flower that can cause bother for pets are carnations.

Prized for their vibrant colours, delicate petals and beautiful smell, they are mildly toxic to dogs.

If ingested, carnations can cause vomiting or diarrhea.

Another popular Mothers’ Day choice are lilies, highly symbolic but also toxic to both dogs and cats.

Different species of lilies can cause different side effects, with some containing insoluble oxalate crystals that can irritate the digestive system.

In extreme cases, ingestion can have serious consequences, such as kidney failure, seizures, slowed heart rate, vomiting and diarrhoea

Famous for their spring blooms, daffodils symbolise new beginnings and renewal but are highly toxic to dogs.

The bulbs of daffodils are especially harmful, as they contain lycorine and other dangerous compounds.

If ingested, daffodils can cause abdominal pain, low blood pressure, arrhythmias and diarrhoea.

Tulips are also moderately toxic to dogs, as their bulbs contain compounds which can irritate a dog’s stomach lining and cause symptoms such as drooling, tremors, breathing difficulties and vomiting.

Some flowers, including roses, are not toxic to pets but have thorns which can cut pets’ mouths, gums or throat if ingested.

If all else fails, plants are a reliable alternative to flowers for a thoughtful but safe gift.

Examples include orchids, spider plants and marigolds.