Beauty of Lilies Deadly to Cats

All parts of Lilium species and Hemerocallis species, including the pollen, are considered toxic to cats. Renal injury has occurred after what many owners considered minor exposure. Cats often develop vomiting or lethargy within 2 hours of ingestion. These signs may be transient, with many cats appearing to recover, only to deteriorate 24 to 72 hours later. Renal failure can follow and death can occur within 3 to 6 days.

A survey was conducted of cat owners who reported their cat’s indoor lily exposure to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). A total of 57 cats were included in the study. Of the owners, 69% said they could recognize a lily and 27% knew they were toxic to cats before the exposure occurred. Owners who were unaware of lily toxicity often left the plants where the cats had access to them; plants were kept out of reach by owners who were aware of lily toxicity but their cats actively sought access to the plants.

Veterinary care was prompt for 93% of the cats; these were treated aggressively with decontamination and IV fluid therapy. Of the 55 cats with known follow-up data, 87% either developed no signs or had brief signs that resolved and 11% developed renal signs. Three cats were subsequently euthanized because of renal failure. The best chance for successful treatment is aggressive IV fluid therapy within the first 18 hours after exposure; delay greatly decreases the chance for successful outcome.

CommentaryThis first published paper looking at a large number of cats exposed to lilies shows the need for continued education of the public about lily toxicity in cats. It also demonstrates that because some cats actively seek out plant material, owners should never bring toxic plants into the house. Based on the compiled data, most cats have full recovery with early decontamination and treatment—important information to know when recommending treatment to owners.—Tina Wismer, DVM, DABVT, & DABT

SourceExposure circumstances and outcomes of 48 households with 57 cats exposed to toxic lily species. Slater MR, Gwaltney-Brant S. JAAHA 47:386-390, 2011.