Yes. Many lilies are extremely poisonous to cats and can cause fatal kidney failure even in very small amounts.
How lilies harm cats
- “True” lilies (Lilium species like Easter, Asiatic, tiger, stargazer) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) are highly toxic and can destroy a cat’s kidneys.
- All parts of these plants are dangerous, including leaves, petals, pollen, and even the water from a vase containing lilies.
Symptoms to watch for
- Early signs within hours can include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
- As kidney damage develops (12–72 hours), cats may drink and urinate more, then may stop urinating altogether, which is life-threatening.
Other plants called “lily”
- Calla lilies and peace lilies usually cause mouth irritation and stomach upset but not kidney failure, though they are still harmful.
- Lily of the valley and some other “lilies” can affect the heart or multiple organs and are also dangerous.
What to do right now
- If a cat has eaten, chewed, or even licked a lily or its pollen, this is an emergency and it needs a vet immediately—do not wait for symptoms.
- Take the plant (or a photo) with you to the clinic, and do not try home treatments such as making the cat vomit unless a vet specifically instructs it.
Safety tips for cat owners
- Do not keep lilies (especially Lilium or Hemerocallis types) in any home or yard that a cat can access.
- Ask florists for cat-safe arrangements and remove any lilies from bouquets before bringing them into a house with cats.
