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Can cats eat lily?

Dangerous

Even licking pollen can be fatal. Keep lilies out of a home with cats.

If your cat ate it

Signs
Vomiting, drooling, lethargy, not eating → later little or no urine
When
Vomiting within 0–6 hours; kidney injury develops over 24–72 hours
What to do now
Go to a vet now, even without symptoms. Decontamination and IV fluids (usually 48 h) started within 6 hours give a good outlook; after about 18 hours it drops sharply. Bring the plant or a photo.

Never — if a bouquet contains lilies, keep it out of the house.

Why

All parts of true lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) — leaves, petals, stems, pollen and even the vase water — cause acute kidney failure in cats. Pollen groomed off the fur can be enough. Dogs don't get this kidney injury, which is why lilies are a cat-specific emergency.

If your cat has a condition

Dangerous for every cat, with or without a health condition.

FAQ

My cat licked a little pollen and seems fine.

Go anyway. Kidney damage shows up a day or two later, when treatment is far less effective.

Are calla lilies and peace lilies the same?

No — despite the name they are different plants. They irritate the mouth but don't damage the kidneys. Still keep them away.

SourcesReviewed 2026-10-24