My Cat Ate Lily
This is an emergency because true lilies and daylilies can cause sudden, life-threatening kidney failure in cats, even after very small exposures. Here's what to do right now, what symptoms to watch for, and what treatment may involve.
This is a veterinary emergency.
If your cat chewed, licked, brushed against, or drank water from a vase containing a true lily or daylily, call a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately and arrange urgent veterinary care right away.
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If your cat has consumed lily and is showing severe symptoms — such as vomiting, tremors, seizures, or collapse — they may need in-person emergency veterinary care immediately. If this is the case, we recommend calling our partner Pet Poison Helpline ($85 consultation fee). They work directly with your emergency vet to guide treatment and help resolve your pet's case faster.
When to call a vet
Go to the ER now
See a vet within 24 hours
Watch at home, call if it worsens
What Happened & Why It's Dangerous
Very small exposures can be enough
True lilies (Lilium species) and daylilies (Hemerocallis species) are highly toxic to cats. Even a small bite, pollen exposure, or drinking contaminated vase water can be dangerous.
The main risk is acute kidney failure
These lilies can damage the kidneys quickly. Without prompt treatment, cats may develop severe acute kidney injury that can become life-threatening.
Symptoms may start after a delay
Early signs often begin within hours and can include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and poor appetite. Kidney-related signs may appear later over the next 24 to 72 hours.
Not every 'lily' causes the same poisoning
Peace lilies and calla lilies usually cause painful mouth irritation rather than the same kidney toxicity seen with true lilies and daylilies. If you are not sure which plant it was, call your vet right away.
What to Do Right Now
1. Remove access immediately — Take away the plant, bouquet, fallen petals, and vase water so your cat cannot have any more exposure.
2. Gently remove pollen if present — If you see pollen on your cat's fur, use a damp cloth to carefully wipe it off and prevent grooming. Avoid bathing a stressed or unstable cat unless a veterinarian tells you to do so.
3. Call a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline now — Do this even if your cat seems completely normal. Early treatment offers the best chance of preventing kidney failure.
4. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to — Home treatments can delay proper care or make things worse. Follow professional poison guidance instead.
5. Bring the plant or a clear photo — If possible, take the label, bouquet tag, or a photo of the plant to help confirm whether it was a true lily or another plant with 'lily' in the name.
6. Be prepared for testing and hospital care — Your veterinarian may recommend decontamination under medical supervision, bloodwork, urine testing, kidney monitoring, and intravenous fluids.
- 1. Remove access immediately
- 2. Gently remove pollen if present
- 3. Call a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline now
- 4. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to
- 5. Bring the plant or a clear photo
- 6. Be prepared for testing and hospital care
Common questions about cats and lilies
How much lily is toxic to a cat?
What symptoms can happen after a cat eats lily?
How long until symptoms appear?
Are peace lilies or calla lilies the same emergency?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.