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Flowers & Plants

Lilies: Safe for Dogs and Cats?

CautionDogs

True lilies cause the fatal kidney failure seen in cats only rarely in dogs, who typically develop nothing worse than mild stomach upset after chewing on the plant.

Toxic principle: unidentified; the nephrotoxin responsible for lily poisoning is specific to cats

Watch for

  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • mild diarrhea
Full dog guide for lilies
EmergencyCats

Even a tiny amount of any part of a true lily, including pollen groomed off fur or water from the vase, can cause fatal kidney failure in a cat within days.

Toxic principle: unidentified nephrotoxin unique to true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species)

Watch for

  • lethargy
  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • loss of appetite
  • increased urination followed by decreased urination as kidneys fail
  • dehydration
Full cat guide for lilies

This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.

Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.