Are Lilies Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Lilies from the Lilium species are severely toxic to cats but are considered non-toxic for dogs. For felines, exposure to any part of these plants can lead to serious health consequences, including kidney failure.
This distinction is critical for pet owners who have both cats and dogs. While a dog might not be affected, the same plant poses a significant danger to a cat. It is essential to correctly identify the type of lily in your home or garden, as the risks vary greatly between species.
Lilies: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Lily |
|---|---|
| Other common names | None listed |
| Scientific name | Lilium species |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Cats |
| Non-toxic to | Non-Toxic to Dogs, Non-Toxic to Horses |
| Toxic principles | Unknown |
| Clinical signs listed | Cats: kidney failure. |
Other lilies in the ASPCA database
| Entry | Scientific name | Toxicity | Clinical signs listed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easter Lily | Lilium longiflorum | Toxic to Cats | Vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, kidney failure, and death is possible. Cats are only species known to be affected. |
| Tiger Lily | Lilium tigrinum | Toxic to Cats | Vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, kidney failure, and death is possible. Cats are only species known to be affected. |
| Orange Day Lily | Hemerocallis graminea | Toxic to Cats | Vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, kidney failure, and death is possible. Cats are only species known to be affected. |
What the ASPCA says about lilies
The ASPCA plant database identifies plants in the Lilium species as toxic to cats. The toxic principle is listed as unknown, but the primary clinical sign of ingestion in cats is kidney failure. The organization specifically notes that these plants are non-toxic to dogs and horses.
Several common lily varieties are highlighted for their danger to cats, who are the only species known to be affected. These include:
- Easter Lily (Lilium longiflorum)
- Tiger Lily (Lilium tigrinum)
- Orange Day Lily (Hemerocallis graminea)
For these specific plants, the ASPCA lists symptoms in cats such as vomiting, lack of appetite, and lethargy, which can progress to kidney failure and may even be fatal.
What this means for a home with pets
The extreme toxicity of certain lilies to cats means that even minor exposure is a cause for concern. A cat that chews on a leaf, licks pollen off its fur, or drinks water from a vase holding these flowers could be poisoned. Because the toxic component is unknown, all parts of the plant, including the stem, leaves, flowers, and pollen, should be considered dangerous.
For dogs, the situation is different. True lilies of the Lilium genus are not considered toxic to them. A dog might chew on a lily without experiencing the severe effects seen in cats. However, it is always a good practice to discourage pets from eating any houseplant, as doing so can sometimes lead to mild digestive upset.
Keeping pets and this plant apart
Given the severe risk to cats, the safest approach is to not have lilies from the Lilium or Hemerocallis genera in your home or in garden areas accessible to your cat. Check bouquets and floral arrangements for these flowers before bringing them inside. If you choose to have these plants, they must be kept in a room that your cat cannot enter under any circumstances.
Supervision is key. Always monitor pets around plants. Since pollen can fall onto floors or furniture and be licked up by a cat during grooming, placement on a high shelf may not be enough to prevent exposure. Regular cleaning to remove fallen leaves or pollen can help reduce risk, but complete separation is the most reliable safety measure.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a lily, or even licked its pollen, this is a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately for guidance. A consultation fee may apply. Note the time of exposure and what part of the plant was consumed, and bring the plant or its packaging with you if possible.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
Book an appointment soon
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Lily
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Easter Lily
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Tiger Lily
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Orange Day Lily
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.