Are lilies poisonous to cats?

All true lilies are potentially fatal to cats. Every part of Lilium and Hemerocallis species causes acute kidney failure in cats, including petals, leaves, pollen, and even the water in the vase. As little as one or two petals, or pollen brushed onto fur and groomed off, can kill a cat within 72 hours without emergency treatment.

What should I do if my cat eats a toxic plant?

Call the Animal Poison Line on 01202 509000 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Take a sample or photo of the plant. Never induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you. Get your cat to the nearest veterinary surgery as quickly as possible. Early treatment within the first 6 hours gives the best chance of survival.

Are peace lilies toxic to cats?

Peace lilies cause oral pain and swelling. But are not as dangerous as true lilies. They contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate burning of the mouth, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Most cats stop eating immediately due to the pain. Symptoms are distressing but rarely life-threatening with prompt veterinary care.

Which house plants are safe for cats?

Spider plants, Boston ferns, calathea, parlour palms, and orchids are all safe for cats. African violets, money tree (Pachira aquatica), and haworthia are also non-toxic. Avoid monstera, philodendron, aloe vera, snake plant, and pothos, all of which are toxic to cats.

What are the first signs of plant poisoning in cats?

Vomiting is the most common early sign. Other symptoms include drooling, lethargy, loss of appetite, and hiding. Lily poisoning specifically causes increased urination followed by decreased urination as the kidneys fail. Any vomiting after suspected plant contact warrants an immediate vet visit.

Are daffodils poisonous to cats?

Yes, all parts of daffodils are toxic to cats. The bulbs contain the highest concentration of lycorine and oxalates. Symptoms include vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, and tremors. Cats rarely eat daffodils because of the bitter taste, but cut daffodils in vases pose a risk as cats may drink the water.

Can cats die from lily pollen?

Yes, lily pollen alone can kill a cat. When a cat brushes against lily stamens, pollen sticks to the fur. The cat grooms it off and ingests enough to cause kidney failure. This makes lilies uniquely dangerous among all toxic plants. Remove lilies from any household or garden where cats have access.

How do I make my garden safe for cats?

Remove all lilies, foxglove, and lily of the valley entirely. Replace them with cat-safe alternatives like roses, snapdragons, and catmint. Check house plants against a toxicity list. Never bring cut lilies indoors. Store bulbs out of reach and cover freshly planted borders. Keep the Animal Poison Line number saved in your phone.

Pests & Problems | 30 December 2025 | 13 min read

Plants Toxic to Cats: UK Garden Guide

Plants toxic to cats in UK gardens and homes. Covers lilies, foxglove, yew, indoor plants, severity levels, symptoms, and cat-safe alternatives.

British shorthair cat sitting on a garden wall next to a flower border with lilies and foxgloves

Pests & Problems

Lilies are the number one killer of cats among UK garden plants. All Lilium and Hemerocallis species cause acute kidney failure in cats, and even pollen groomed from fur can be fatal. At least 22 common UK garden and house plants are toxic to cats. The Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) operates 24 hours. Cats are uniquely sensitive to lilies, essential oils, and certain compounds that dogs tolerate safely.

Lily DangerFatal within 72 hours

Toxic Plants22+ common UK species

Emergency Line01202 509000 (24-hour)

Peak RiskSpring and summer blooms

Key takeaways

All true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis) can kill a cat within 72 hours, even from pollen contact alone
Cats groom pollen from their fur, making lilies uniquely dangerous compared to all other toxic plants
The Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) provides 24-hour emergency toxicology advice for cat owners
Common house plants including peace lily, monstera, and aloe vera are toxic to cats
Safe alternatives exist for every toxic plant, from roses replacing lilies to spider plants replacing philodendrons
Spring and summer are peak risk periods, with lilies, foxgloves, and daffodils all in bloom or sold as cut flowers

toxic plants cats pet safety garden safety poisonous plants

By Garden UK Editorial Team

Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.

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Plants Toxic to Cats: UK Garden Guide

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