Are Lilies Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
By the VetVerdict team · Last updated October 18, 2026 · General information, not veterinary advice
Dogs
Safe in ModerationMildTrue lilies cause milder digestive upset in dogs than in cats, though ingestion still warrants a call to your vet.
Cats
ToxicEmergencyTrue lilies (including Easter, tiger, and daylilies) are severely toxic to cats — even a small amount of pollen or a sip of vase water can cause fatal kidney failure.
Why lilies are a cat emergency
True lilies — Easter, tiger, Asiatic and stargazer lilies — and daylilies can damage a cat's kidneys. The exact toxin has not been identified, and every part of the plant is a concern, including the pollen and the water in the vase.
Not every "lily" is the same
Cats do not have to eat the plant: pollen that brushes onto fur gets groomed off and swallowed. Because bouquets often include lilies without a warning label, it is worth checking before you bring flowers home.
Some plants called lilies are different. Peace lilies and calla lilies contain irritating crystals that cause mouth and stomach irritation rather than kidney failure, and lily of the valley affects the heart. If you are unsure of the species, treat it as a true lily.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and drooling
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Later: changes in urination, then kidney failure over a few days
Early signs can appear within hours, but kidney damage develops over the following days. Fast treatment makes a big difference.
What to do
Treat any possible exposure in a cat as an emergency, even if your cat seems normal. Call your vet or poison control or go to an emergency clinic right away, bring the plant or a photo, and mention any pollen on the fur.
Safer alternatives
Cat-friendlier bouquet choices include roses, sunflowers, snapdragons and orchids — double-check any flower against the ASPCA's plant list before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Are all lilies dangerous to cats?
True lilies and daylilies are the most serious. Peace lilies and calla lilies are irritants but not known for kidney failure. If you are not sure which you have, treat it as dangerous.
My cat only licked some pollen. Is that an emergency?
Yes, treat it as one. Even small amounts can be serious, and treatment works best when started early.