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Lilies
Lilium spp.
True lilies (Lilium spp.), including Easter Lily, Tiger Lily, Stargazer Lily, Asiatic Lily, and others in the Lilium genus, are among the most lethal plants for cats. Virtually every part — petals, leaves, stems, pollen, and even vase water — is highly nephrotoxic. The specific toxic compound has not been identified, but its effect is swift and devastating: acute kidney failure with high mortality if untreated.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: unknown nephrotoxic substance specific to Lilium (and Hemerocallis/Daylily); toxic to cats but not dogs or humans
Mechanism: acute tubular necrosis — rapid, irreversible destruction of kidney tissue within 24–72 hours
Symptoms Phase 1 (0–2h): vomiting, lethargy, drooling; Phase 2 (24–72h): kidney failure with decreased/absent urination, dehydration, seizures, coma
Even licking pollen off fur or drinking vase water can cause fatal poisoning
True lily exposure is a veterinary emergency — early IV fluid therapy significantly improves survival; do not wait for symptoms to develop
Potentially Toxic Parts
Leaf
Entire Plant
Flower
Pollen
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Acute Kidney Failure (characterized by Increased Thirst, Dehydration, Polyuria, and Anuria)
Renal · Delayed; kidney failure typically occurs within 36 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days)
Seizures / Tremors
Gastrointestinal · Delayed; typically occurs in the late stages of toxicity as kidney failure progresses
Lethargy, Depression, Generalized Weakness, and Recumbency (inability to rise)
Neurological · Initial lethargy and depression appear within a few hours (1 to 12 hours)35.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Drooling (Salivation), Abdominal Pain, and Inappetence (Anorexia or Loss of Appetite)
Gastrointestinal · Rapid; typically within 1 to 4 hours of ingestion
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.