Lily Hazards for Cats

Lily Hazards for Cats
by Jill A. Richardson, DVM Veterinary Poison Information Specialist ASPCA/National Animal Poison Control Center

ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center Warns Cat Owners of Lily Dangers.

As spring approaches, lilies will become more common in households as potted plants or in bouquets. According to Michigan State University Extension’s Grower Guide, Easter lilies are the third most important flowering pot-plant grown in the United States, with l0 to 11 million plants produced annually. Unfortunately, several types of lilies can be deadly to cats. Easter lily, tiger lily, rubrum, Japanese show lily, some species of day lily, and certain other members of the Liliaceae family can cause kidney failure in cats.

Within only a few hours of ingestion of the plant material, the cat may vomit, become lethargic, or develop a lack of appetite. These signs continue and worsen as kidney damage progresses. Without prompt and proper treatment by a veterinarian, the cat will develop kidney failure in approximately 36-72 hours.

All parts of these lilies are considered toxic to cats and consuming even small amounts can cause severe poisoning. If there is a lily in your home, there is always the chance that your cat could be accidentally exposed. For this reason, cat owners should avoid exposing their cats to plants of the Liliaceae and Hemerocallis family.

Lilies that have been shown to cause kidney failure in cats include:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals/Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA/APCC) is the first and only 24-hour poison control hotline for animals in North America. Our veterinary health professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Veterinarians and pet owners seeking advice reach a staff of 20 veterinarians (including five board-certified toxicologists) and seven certified veterinary technicians.