Lilies Are Deadly!

Lilies Are Deadly!

With the upcoming spring holidays of Easter and Passover right around the corner, floral bouquets and potted lilies are often present in many homes and come summer, daylilies will grace many gardens.  We would like to remind all cat owners that exposure to any plant member of the lily family can pose a serious health risk to both indoor and outdoor felines.

It is very important for cat owners to understand that ALL parts of a lily plant are potentially fatal if ingested, including the stems, leaves, flower and pollen.  Even a case of minor exposure, such as biting a leaf can result in a fatal toxicity.  The pollen is so toxic that cats can be exposed from touching their whiskers to the flower or merely brushing up against the plant and absorbing the toxins through normal grooming.

Lily toxicosis in cats generally results in vomiting initially.  Acute renal failure follows within 24 to 72 hours post-exposure and is often accompanied by lethargy, anorexia, fever and dehydration.  The "golden window" for effective treatment of lily toxicosis is within 18 hours for a good prognosis.

Despite owners' best attempts to prevent access to these toxic flowers by curious house cats, it is often the case that cats will push open doors, climb or jump up to areas the owner thought were inaccessible.  We don't know exactly why, but it is thought that most cats are especially attracted to lily plants and their flowers.  To avoid a potential exposure, it is best not to allow any of these plants or cut flowers inside your home.  It is just not worth the risk of your cat's health.

If you are sending flowers to relatives and friends please make sure to specifically request "no lilies" in the bouquets or arrangements that are going to homes with cats. 

Here are some pictures of lilies for reference: