Which lilies are poisonous to cats?

True lilies — including Easter, tiger, Asiatic, day, and Japanese show lilies — cause acute kidney failure. Peace and calla lilies cause oral irritation but not the same kidney toxicity. When in doubt, treat any lily exposure as an emergency.

How much lily is toxic to cats?

Any exposure may be lethal — ingesting a single leaf, licking pollen, or drinking vase water can cause kidney failure. There is no safe amount.

What are symptoms of lily poisoning in cats?

Vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite appear within hours. Kidney failure develops within one to three days, with reduced urination and dehydration. Early treatment before symptoms is critical.

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Lily poisoning in cats

Quick answer

True lilies — Easter, tiger, Asiatic, day, and related species — cause **acute kidney failure** in cats. Every part is toxic: petals, leaves, stems, pollen, and even vase water. If your cat chewed a lily, licked pollen, or drank from the vase, call your vet or **Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000** and go to an emergency clinic **immediately** — treatment within eighteen hours saves lives.

Key takeaways

True lilies cause acute kidney failure in cats — there is no safe dose; a single leaf, pollen, or vase water can be enough.
Easter, tiger, Asiatic, day, and related Lilium/Hemerocallis species are the main UK bouquet risk — never bring them into a cat home.
Call your vet or Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) immediately after any exposure — do not wait for symptoms.

The full guide

Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.

Read: Lily Poisoning in Cats Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Which lilies are poisonous to cats?: True lilies — including Easter, tiger, Asiatic, day, and Japanese show lilies — cause acute kidney failure. Peace and calla lilies cause oral irritation but not the same kidney toxicity. When in doubt, treat any lily exposure as an emergency.
How much lily is toxic to cats?: Any exposure may be lethal — ingesting a single leaf, licking pollen, or drinking vase water can cause kidney failure. There is no safe amount.
What are symptoms of lily poisoning in cats?: Vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite appear within hours. Kidney failure develops within one to three days, with reduced urination and dehydration. Early treatment before symptoms is critical.