Easter Lilies and Other Plants Pose Potentially Life-Threatening Risk to Your Cat's Health

If your cat has eaten even part of a lily, the first thing you'll see is vomiting very soon afterwards

The white, trumpet-shaped Easter lily symbolizes Easter and spring for many people and is a popular decoration in homes this time of year. If you have cats, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants to remind you that these flowers, as well as Tiger, Asiatic, Day and Japanese Show lilies—pose a serious, potentially life-threatening risk to your feline friends.

The Entire Plant Is Poisonous

Eating grass or plants may be normal for cats but the entire lily plant, leaf, pollen and flower—is poisonous. Even a small nibble or a few pollen grains licked off their fur can trigger acute kidney failure.

Vomiting typically appears soon after ingestion and may lessen over two to four hours. Within 12 to 24 hours, increased urination follows, then the cat may stop producing urine if kidney failure sets in. Without treatment, death can occur within four to seven days.

What to Do If Your Cat Ingests a Lily

Early veterinary intervention is critical. If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of a lily, call your veterinarian immediately or visit an emergency clinic. Treatment may include induced vomiting and intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and protect kidney function.

Other Lilies and Pets

• Calla and Peace lilies: May irritate mouth and esophagus but are not usually fatal.
• Lilies of the Valley: Toxic to the heart and can cause dangerous heart rhythms.

If you think your cat has eaten any type of lily, contact your veterinarian without delay.

Dogs Are Less at Risk

Dogs do not face the same severe risk. They may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they eat lilies but rarely suffer life-threatening effects.

To keep pets safe, place any lilies well out of reach of cats and other curious animals.