Emergency? Call now - do not wait for symptoms.
Is Lily toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Plant | Last reviewed: April 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
CAUTIONCats
EMERGENCYLily and dogs
True lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are significantly less dangerous to dogs than to cats. They may cause mild GI upset but rarely cause kidney failure. Peace lily and calla lily are mild irritants for dogs. Still worth contacting your vet.
Onset
0-2 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - lethargy
- - mild GI upset
What to do now
Contact your vet for advice. Monitor for vomiting and GI symptoms. Rush to vet if serious symptoms develop.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
Lily and cats
ALL parts of true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are extremely toxic to cats. Even a few pollen grains on the coat that are groomed off can cause acute kidney failure. There is no antidote - treatment must begin within hours to prevent irreversible kidney damage. The peace lily and calla lily cause different, milder symptoms.
Onset
0-2 hours for initial symptoms; kidney failure 24-72 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - lethargy
- - drooling
- - loss of appetite
- - acute kidney failure
- - death within 3-7 days if untreated
What to do now
CRITICAL EMERGENCY. Rush to an emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Even small exposures can be fatal. Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) while in transit.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - VCA Animal Hospital - Lily Toxicity in Cats
- - Pet Poison Helpline
- - JAVMA 2003 - Lily toxicosis in domestic cats
Last reviewed: April 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.