TailVilleWhy
True lilies (Lilium, such as Easter, tiger, Asiatic and Oriental lilies) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) cause acute kidney injury in cats, though the toxin is still unidentified. Every part is toxic, including pollen and vase water, so a cat can be poisoned just by grooming pollen off its fur. Dogs don't get kidney damage from these lilies and usually have only vomiting or diarrhea. Lily of the valley, however, is toxic to the heart in both dogs and cats, and peace lilies and calla lilies irritate the mouth.
How to give it / if eaten
If your cat may have chewed a lily or daylily or licked its pollen or vase water, go to an emergency vet immediately, even without symptoms: starting treatment within about 18 hours greatly improves the outcome. Bring a photo or piece of the plant and wipe pollen off the fur with a damp cloth. Don't induce vomiting at home without a vet's instruction. If a dog ate one, call your vet and name the plant.
Watch for these signs
Cats: vomiting, drooling, poor appetite and lethargy within hours, then over 1โ3 days increased thirst followed by little or no urine as the kidneys fail. Dogs: usually vomiting, diarrhea and poor appetite.
FAQ
My cat got lily pollen on its fur. Is that dangerous?
Yes, because your cat can swallow it while grooming. Wipe it off with a damp cloth and call your vet right away. If you have a cat, the safest choice is not to bring lilies home at all.
Are lilies dangerous for dogs too?
True lilies and daylilies don't cause kidney failure in dogs, mostly just an upset stomach. Lily of the valley is toxic to a dog's heart, though, so if you're unsure which plant it was, show your vet a photo.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.