Is a Pansy Toxic to Cats?

"Snapdragons are a bit bland. I prefer the grassiness of a Pansy."
i David De Lossy/Photodisc/Getty Images

A lot of people appreciate pansies and keep them around. These colorful, cheerful flowers are easy to grow and add color to the garden in cooler months. If you've found Frisky snacking on this flower, don't worry.

Multi-Purpose Pansies

It's easy to see why pansies are popular flowers. They come in a variety of colors, bloom types and sizes and are hardy cool weather plants. Whether they're acting as a border along the house or adding a splash of color in a pot on the patio, they're fairly easy to grow. Not only will they liven up your landscape, but they can also add a dash of color to your cooking. That's right -- pansies are safe for you, Frisky and Fido to eat.

Edible Flowers for All

If you want a garden of safe edible flowers for the whole family, there are a lot of choices. The grassy flavor of pansies makes it a nice choice to garnish soups, salads and desserts. Nasturtiums will brighten the plate and the palate, with their bright colors and peppery tang. Roses are popular for adding flavor to waters, syrups and jellies. The darker the rose is, the more intense the flavor will be. Other bloomers that are safe for you and Frisky include snapdragons, violets, marigolds and grape hyacinth.

Edible for You; Toxic for Frisky

Carnations can make a beautiful, edible addition to a cake and hibiscus can liven up a salad or make for a relaxing tea. However, these are toxic to Frisky. Keep her away from geraniums, begonias, tulips, gladiolus and chrysanthemums.

Toxic for Both of You

Flowers such as crocus, daffodils, lily of the valley and foxglove are best left to sit in a vase. These are toxic to Frisky, should she decide to taste them. Keep them away from her reach in order to ensure her safety.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.

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