Is Peace Lily Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, the peace lily is toxic to both cats and dogs. All parts of the plant, from the leaves to the stems and flowers, contain microscopic crystals that cause a painful reaction if a pet chews or bites them. The plant is a member of the Spathiphyllum genus and is also known as the Mauna Loa Peace Lily.
This toxicity comes from a substance called insoluble calcium oxalates. These are sharp, needle-like crystals. Unlike some plant toxins that are absorbed into the bloodstream to cause systemic illness, these crystals cause immediate, intense physical irritation to the tissues they touch, such as the mouth, tongue, and throat.
Peace Lily: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Peace Lily |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Mauna Loa Peace Lily |
| Scientific name | Spathiphyllum |
| Family | Araceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Insoluble calcium oxalates |
| Clinical signs listed | Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing. |
What the ASPCA says about peace lily
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists the peace lily as toxic to cats and dogs. The plant belongs to the Araceae family.
The toxic principle identified by the ASPCA is insoluble calcium oxalates. According to the organization, exposure to these crystals can lead to a range of uncomfortable clinical signs in pets, including:
- Oral irritation
- Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
These symptoms are a direct result of the sharp crystals embedding themselves in the sensitive tissues of the pet’s mouth and digestive tract.
What this means in a home with pets
The primary danger of the peace lily is the immediate and severe discomfort it can cause a curious pet. A cat or dog that bites into a leaf may experience a sudden, painful burning sensation in its mouth. This often stops the pet from ingesting a large amount of the plant material, but even a small nibble is enough to cause symptoms.
The reaction is mechanical. As a pet chews, the plant cells are broken, releasing the sharp crystals. This can lead to intense irritation of the lips and tongue, profuse drooling as the pet tries to clear the irritant, and sometimes vomiting. Difficulty swallowing can occur because of the pain in the mouth and throat area. This type of toxicity is focused on oral and gastrointestinal distress.
How to keep cats, dogs, and this plant apart
Supervision is essential for pet safety around any houseplant. Since all parts of the peace lily are toxic, preventing access is the most effective strategy. Place the plant in a room that pets cannot enter, or put it on a high, stable shelf that a cat cannot reach. Hanging planters are another option, as long as they are securely fastened and do not drop leaves onto the floor.
Regularly check the area around the plant for fallen leaves, stems, or flowers and dispose of them immediately. When watering or pruning, make sure your pet is in another room to avoid any accidental contact. If you have a pet that is known to chew on plants, it may be safest to choose non-toxic houseplants instead. Always read labels and research any new plant you bring into your home.
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 pet has chewed on a peace lily, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Note the time of exposure and how much of the plant you think was ingested. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or provide any home remedies unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.
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
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- 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
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.