Why lilies kill cats (and which "lilies" are different)

True lilies in the genus Lilium can cause acute kidney failure in cats. Even pollen, petals, or a small nibble can be dangerous. In our ASPCA entries, dogs are generally not affected the same way for true Lilium.

True lilies in our database

• Lily toxic to cats — ASPCA clinical signs: Cats: kidney failure. Source: ASPCA.
• Easter Lily toxic to cats (dogs listed non-toxic on ASPCA) — Vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, kidney failure, and death is possible. Cats are only species known to be affected. Source: ASPCA.

Look-alikes that are NOT the same toxin profile

These use "lily" in the common name but are different plants in our data:

• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) — mild for cats/dogs. Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing. Principle: Insoluble calcium oxalates. Source: ASPCA. Safer swaps: Cast Iron Plant, Calathea, Parlor Palm.
• Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) — mild. Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing Source: ASPCA. Safer swaps: African Violet, Christmas Cactus, Lipstick Plant.
• Easter Lily Cactus — a cactus marked safe for cats and dogs in ASPCA data; the common name is confusing, so always check the scientific name (Echinopsis multiplex).

Safer flowering swaps

Instead of true lilies, consider African Violet, Christmas Cactus, or Polka Dot Plant — all marked safe for cats and dogs in our database.

More reading: Plants toxic to cats · 20 cat-safe houseplants

Summary only — follow the linked ASPCA entries. Not a substitute for veterinary care.