LILY TOXICITY IN CATS
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Lily plants (true lilies and daylilies) cause fatal acute kidney failure in cats. Even pollen exposure or drinking vase water can be lethal.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD (THERE ARE NO MILD CASES)
All lily exposures are emergencies.
MEDICAL CAUSES
• Exposure to pollen on fur
• Chewing leaves or petals
• Drinking vase water
EMERGENCY CAUSES
• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Rapid kidney failure within 24–72 hours
RED FLAGS
• Any contact with lilies
• Vomiting
• Drinking excessively
• Not urinating
If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent.
AT-HOME CARE YOU CAN START NOW
• Wipe off visible pollen with a damp cloth
• Immediately seek emergency veterinary care
These steps do not replace a veterinary exam if symptoms continue or worsen.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Induce vomiting (early)
• Activated charcoal
• Kidney values
• Urinalysis
• IV fluids for 48–72 hours
• Ongoing kidney monitoring
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Lily toxicity
• Acute kidney failure