Valentine’s Day is all about love, sweet treats, and special gifts—but for pet owners, it also comes with hidden hazards. From chocolates and artificial sweeteners to decorative flowers and discarded wrappers, this holiday presents several risks to our cats and dogs. Whether you’re celebrating with a romantic dinner, a box of gourmet chocolates, or a bouquet of flowers, it’s essential to keep pet safety in mind.

By staying mindful during your celebration, you can avoid accidents that could turn your celebration into a crisis. Keep hazardous materials out of reach, secure all trash, and teach your pets to stay clear of problem areas. A little extra caution goes a long way toward ensuring a safe and happy Valentine’s Day for everyone in your home! Not only that, but you save yourself the extra unnecessary cost associated with emergency medical expenses.

In this guide, we’ll highlight common Valentine’s Day dangers and provide tips to keep your pets happy and healthy including:

• • Trash & Candy Wrappers
  • Chocolate
  • Desserts with Artificial Sweeteners
  • Alcohol
  • Plants & Flowers
  • Emergency Contacts You Should Know
  • Where Can I Learn More?
  • References

Trash & Candy Wrappers

Valentine’s Day often means an increase in waste—candy wrappers, chocolate boxes, ribbons, and even leftovers from a special meal. While it might be tempting to leave trash unattended or let it pile up, doing so can pose a serious risk to your pets.

The Trash Bin

Many pets are naturally curious and will rummage through trash bins in search of tasty (or smelly) surprises. Unfortunately, leftover Valentine’s Day treats and packaging can be dangerous. Foil wrappers and plastic candy bags can cause choking or intestinal blockages if ingested. Ribbon and string from gift wrapping can lead to life-threatening complications if swallowed, especially for cats. Leftovers such as steak bones or rich, fatty foods can cause digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs.

To prevent these dangers, make sure to:

• Secure your trash can with a lid and store it in a closed cabinet if possible.
• Immediately dispose of candy wrappers and food packaging in a pet-proof bin.
• Flatten or cut plastic snack bags to eliminate the risk of suffocation before discarding them.
• Keep all gift ribbons, bows, and decorative string out of reach, especially if you have a cat.
• Reinforce commands like “Leave it” and “Drop it” to help prevent trash-related incidents.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your Valentine’s Day is safe and enjoyable for both you and your pets.

Snack & Candy Wrappers

Empty food backs, snack bags, or treat bags might not seem dangerous, but they pose a significant suffocation hazard. When pets stick their heads into these bags, they create a vacuum effect, making it nearly impossible to pull their heads out. Tragically, suffocation can occur within minutes.

To prevent this, always flatten bags before discarding them by cutting or tearing along the seams. Secure them in a tightly closed bin. This simple step could save your pet’s life. Additionally, remind family members—especially if there are leftovers around—to follow this practice.

Watch this video to learn how to dispose of bags safely!

 

Chocolate

Chocolate is another dessert danger, as it contains theobromine, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous due to their high concentration of theobromine. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include restlessness, tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, seizures or heart arrhythmias.

Not all chocolates are equally dangerous. As a general guideline, even small amounts of chocolate can be harmful to dogs, with the following estimates indicating when toxicity may occur:

• White chocolate: has minimal theobromine content and poses less risk, though it’s still not recommended for pets due to its high fat content, which can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis.
• Milk chocolate: Toxicity can begin at around 1 ounce per 10 pounds of body weight.
• Dark chocolate: Toxicity may occur with as little as 0.3 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight.
• Baking chocolate: Toxicity can start at just 0.1 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight.

As little as one ounce of dark chocolate is enough to require emergency veterinary care for a 10-pound cat.

Pets with pre-existing heart conditions or seizure disorders have a significantly higher risk associated with chocolate consumption.

If your dog has eaten chocolate, don’t wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help. Immediate action is crucial, as treatment becomes more complicated once signs of toxicity develop. Contact your veterinarian, an emergency animal hospital, or a pet poison hotline right away for guidance.

When you reach out, you’ll need to provide specific information such as:

• Your dog’s weight
• The type of chocolate consumed (e.g., dark, milk, or baker’s chocolate)
• The estimated amount eaten
• Any symptoms your dog is exhibiting, such as vomiting, panting, or tremors.

Being detailed about what your dog has eaten and the symptoms they are showing will help your vet determine whether they’ve consumed a dangerous dose. In some cases, a chocolate toxicity calculator can be useful to assess the risk level.

Not all chocolates are equally dangerous. As a general guideline, even small amounts of chocolate can be harmful to dogs, with the following estimates indicating when toxicity may occur:

• White chocolate: has minimal theobromine content and poses less risk, though it’s still not recommended for pets due to its high fat content, which can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis.
• Milk chocolate: Toxicity can begin at around 1 ounce per 10 pounds of body weight.
• Dark chocolate: Toxicity may occur with as little as 0.3 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight.
• Baking chocolate: Toxicity can start at just 0.1 ounces per 10 pounds of body weight.

The symptoms of chocolate poisoning usually occur within 2-4 hours of ingestion. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination, panting, an abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, and even seizures. In severe cases, chocolate toxicity can be fatal without prompt medical intervention.

If caught early enough, you might be instructed by the veterinarian to induce vomiting at home. This is typically recommended if done within 30 minutes of ingestion, as it can help remove up to 50% of the chocolate from their system. However, follow your vet’s instructions carefully, as improper vomiting induction can lead to complications. Keep an eye on what your dog vomits up and be prepared to describe it to the vet.

As little as 250 mg of theobromine per kilogram of body weight (113 mg/lb) can be toxic for dogs. For cats, the toxic dose is slightly lower at 200 mg/kg (90 mg/lb). Larger amounts can lead to more severe reactions, making it critical to keep any form of chocolate well out of your pet’s reach.

 

 

Desserts With Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, are highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, leading to weakness, vomiting, seizures, and liver failure. Xylitol is often found in sugar-free desserts, gum, candies, and even peanut butter, so always check ingredient labels carefully and keep these items out of reach.

Beyond food products, it’s crucial to recognize that certain human medications also contain xylitol. Some oral suspensions and fast-dissolving tablets—such as gabapentin, fexofenadine, clonazepam, loratadine, meloxicam, and mirtazapine—are known to include xylitol as an inactive ingredient.

It’s essential to keep all sugar-free products out of your dog’s reach and discourage behaviors like “purse digging,” as many purses contain gum or other xylitol-laden items.

If your dog consumes anything containing xylitol, act quickly and do not wait for symptoms to appear. Immediate intervention is crucial, as xylitol can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia and liver damage in dogs. Contact your veterinarian, an emergency animal hospital, or a pet poison hotline for advice as soon as possible.

When seeking help, be prepared to provide the following information:

• Your dog’s weight
• The type of product ingested (e.g., sugar-free gum, baked goods, medications)
• The estimated amount consumed
• Any symptoms your dog is exhibiting, such as vomiting, unsteadiness, or seizures.

Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinary professional, as xylitol is absorbed very quickly, and inducing vomiting may not help if enough time has passed. Additionally, vomiting could worsen your dog’s condition if they are already experiencing low blood sugar.

The first sign of xylitol poisoning in dogs is often vomiting. Symptoms related to hypoglycemia, such as lack of coordination, weakness, depression, dilated pupils, and seizures, can manifest within 10 to 60 minutes after ingestion. If liver damage occurs, symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and even jaundice may appear within 9 to 12 hours. Hypoglycemia may result from the ingestion of more than 100 mg/kg (45 mg/lb), while liver damage can occur at doses exceeding 500 mg/kg (227 mg/lb).

If you suspect that your dog has consumed even a small amount of xylitol, seek veterinary care immediately. Once symptoms such as seizures or signs of liver failure appear, emergency intervention is required to prevent severe complications or death.

Your veterinarian may administer IV fluids and glucose to stabilize your dog’s blood sugar, and, in more severe cases, treatments may focus on protecting the liver. Following your vet’s instructions can make all the difference in ensuring your dog’s survival and recovery.

Alcohol

A romantic Valentine’s Day often includes a celebratory drink—whether it’s a glass of wine, champagne, or a festive cocktail. While alcohol may set the mood for the evening, it can be extremely dangerous for pets. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and potentially life-threatening drops in blood sugar and body temperature. Since pets are often curious about unattended drinks or spilled beverages, it’s crucial to keep all alcoholic drinks out of reach and clean up any spills immediately.

The alcohols most commonly associated with poisoning in pets include ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol). Of these, isopropanol and methanol are more toxic than ethanol. Alcohol poisoning in pets can occur through ingestion, skin absorption, or even inhalation, making it important to be aware of hidden sources of alcohol in your home.

Ethanol is found in a wide variety of products, including:

• Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits)
• Certain rubbing alcohols
• Drug elixirs
• Alcohol-filled chocolates
• Flavorings and extracts
• Fermenting bread dough
• Fermented fruits (such as those in homemade wines or ciders)

Methanol can be found in products such as:

• Windshield washer fluid
• Varnishes, shellacs, and paints
• Paint removers and adhesives
• Tobacco smoke
• Household cleaners and disinfectants
• Some pesticides and canned fuels

Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) is commonly found in:

• Antifreeze (always opt for safer, pet-friendly alternatives)
• Glass cleaners
• Jewelry and stain removers
• Household disinfectants (look for pet-safe options)
• Hand sanitizers
• Beauty products like perfumes and some oral hygiene items
• Alcohol-based flea sprays and grooming products

Even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a variety of symptoms in pets, especially in smaller animals like cats. Some common signs of alcohol poisoning include:

• Incoordination or difficulty walking
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or sleepiness
• Digestive upset or loss of appetite
• Breathing difficulties or rapid breathing
• Disorientation or confusion
• Excessive salivation or drooling
• Excitability or agitation
• Weakness or collapse
• Seizures
• Increased heart rate
• Unusual vocalization or meowing
• Coma or even death

If your pet is exposed to alcohol, it’s important to act fast. Don’t leave drinks unattended or within reach of your pets, and clean up any spills immediately. Be cautious with products that may contain alcohol, ensuring they are securely stored out of reach.

Ingesting even a small amount of alcohol can cause significant problems for your pets, so if you suspect your pet has ingested something containing alcohol, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away.

Ingesting alcohol can lead to serious health complications such as dangerously low blood sugar, reduced blood pressure, and hypothermia (low body temperature). Pets are more sensitive to ethanol than humans, and even small amounts can be harmful.

When seeking help, be ready to provide:

• Your dog’s weight
• The estimated amount of alcohol consumed
• Any symptoms your dog is showing, such as vomiting, difficulty walking, or muscle tremors.

If your pet has consumed alcohol, watch for the following symptoms of toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Decreased coordination or balance
• Difficulty breathing
• Lethargy or fatigue
• Tremors or seizures

The signs and symptoms of alcohol toxicity in pets can typically appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion. However, the exact timing can vary depending on several factors, including the size and breed of the pet, the amount of alcohol ingested, and whether the alcohol was consumed with food. In some cases, symptoms can develop more slowly or worsen over time, so it’s important to monitor your pet closely and seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect alcohol poisoning.

For dogs, ingestion of 5.55 g/kg (about 2.5 g/lb) of ethanol can be fatal, which is roughly equivalent to 0.2 oz/kg (0.08 oz/lb) of alcohol. Cats are particularly sensitive, but there is no established safe threshold for alcohol toxicity in cats. Any exposure to alcohol in pets should be treated as an emergency and reported to a veterinarian immediately.

Plants & Flowers

A bouquet of fresh flowers or a beautiful plant is a classic Valentine’s Day gift, but some of these romantic gestures can pose serious risks to pets. Many popular flowers and plants are toxic to cats and dogs, with lilies being especially dangerous—just a small nibble can lead to kidney failure in cats. Even non-toxic flowers, like roses, can cause harm if their stems have sharp thorns, which can lead to puncture wounds or infections if chewed or stepped on.

Common Valentine’s Day flowers that can be harmful to pets include:

• Lilies (all varieties – extremely toxic to cats)
• Tulips & Hyacinths (can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling)
• Daffodils (can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress)
• Baby’s Breath (mildly toxic but can still cause irritation)
• Lily of the Valley (can cause heart arrhythmias and seizures)
• Hydrangeas & Ferns (can lead to stomach upset)

The APCC plant list can also help you identify other plants which are toxic and which are safe. 

If your pet has consumed a toxic plant or flower, watch for the following symptoms of toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Decreased coordination or balance
• Difficulty breathing
• Lethargy or fatigue
• Tremors or seizures

Symptoms can develop within hours, but in some cases—such as lily toxicity in cats—organ damage may not be immediately apparent. Lilies can cause acute kidney failure in cats within 12–72 hours of exposure. Other plants, such as daffodils and hyacinths, can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea, especially if the bulb is ingested. If you suspect your pet has eaten any toxic plant, seek veterinary care immediately. While the exact toxic dose varies depending on the type of plant, the pet’s size, and the amount ingested, there is no safe level of exposure to lilies for cats. Even small exposures should be treated as an emergency.

When seeking help, be ready to provide:

• Your pet’s weight
• The estimated amount of alcohol consumed
• Any symptoms your dog is showing, such as vomiting, difficulty walking, or muscle tremors.

How to Keep Pets Safe Around Flowers & Plants:

• Choose Pet-Safe Alternatives – When sending or receiving flowers, opt for pet-friendly varieties like orchids, sunflowers, or snapdragons.
• Remove Thorns – If gifting roses, trim off the thorns to prevent injuries.
• Keep Bouquets Out of Reach – Place flowers on high surfaces where pets can’t easily reach them, keeping in mind that cats are excellent jumpers.
• Think Beyond the Table – If you have a particularly curious pet, consider placing flowers in a secured glass cabinet, a hanging planter, or a decorative wire cage.
• Clean Up Fallen Petals & Leaves – Even if a flower isn’t highly toxic, ingesting plant material can still cause stomach upset. Regularly sweep up any fallen debris.

By taking a few extra precautions, you can enjoy your Valentine’s Day blooms while keeping your furry friends safe!

Emergency Contacts You Should Know

If you suspect your pet ingested a hazardous material or suffered some other emergency:

• Our clients can call within normal business hours (843) 966-3362. Outside of normal business hours, for the most immediate assistance, please call New River Veterinary Specialists at (843) 898-6787 or Carolina Veterinary Critical Care at (843) 706-9200.
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center  24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline®    24-hour animal poison control service at (855) 764-7661
• ASPCA Poison Control App on iOS.

Ready to Learn More?

To see all the products we recommend to help keep your pet safe, calm, and entertained during any Holiday:

• Safety Products for dogs & cats here.
• First Aid & Emergency Products for dogs & cats here.
• 24/7 Remote Monitoring Products for dogs & cats here.
• Calming products for dogs here.
• Calming products for cats here.
• Enrichment products for dogs here.
• Activity products for cats here.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment or discuss any concerns for your pet, please call or text us at (843) 966-3362. If you’re a current client, you can also schedule an appointment  online.

Our mission is to provide convenient, fear-free, personalized pet care and our blog allows us to share important educational content. To support our efforts, this page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after using them, we earn a small commission, which helps support this blog at no cost to you. Keep in mind, we only link to quality products we use ourselves and feel are beneficial for our clients and patients.