Pet Toxin Reference

Lilies

Severe
Cats (highest risk), Dogs possible
Often within hours; kidney injury can develop over 12-72 hours
Unknown nephrotoxin in true lilies and daylilies
Act now: Remove access immediately. Save the package, label, or a plant photo if possible. Call your veterinarian or a poison service right away; do not wait for symptoms. Go to an emergency clinic immediately if any concerning signs are already present.
Related Toxins

Quick Facts

Common Sources
Bouquets, potted lilies, floral arrangements, pollen on fur, vase water
Highest Risk
True lilies (especially Lilium and Hemerocallis species)
Category
Plant
Early Signs
Drooling, vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy
Emergency Signs
Acute kidney injury, dehydration, worsening weakness, collapse
Call Your Vet
Call as soon as exposure is suspected, even if your pet still seems normal.

Triage & Next Steps

Why this is dangerous
True lilies and daylilies can cause sudden, life-threatening kidney failure in cats, sometimes even after very small exposures or pollen grooming.
Go to ER immediately if
Go now for collapse, repeated vomiting, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, marked weakness, severe drooling, pale gums, trouble urinating, or any rapidly worsening signs.
What not to do
Do not induce vomiting, give milk/oil/bread, or try home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Prevention
Store products securely, keep plants and medications out of reach, use closed trash bins, and check labels before letting pets near anything new.

This tool provides rapid educational guidance and is not a substitute for direct veterinary advice. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic promptly.

Reviewed by
Andrew Rocco, DVM

Dr. Rocco is a practicing small animal veterinarian with experience in emergency and urgent care medicine. PetToxin.com was built to give pet owners clear, evidence-based information about common toxin exposures.