What it does
Not a true lily and it does not cause kidney failure, but the FDA calls it very dangerous: it can cause abnormal heart rhythms that may be life-threatening, plus vomiting, diarrhea and weakness.
If your cat ate some
- Move your cat away from the plant and take away any pieces, including fallen leaves and petals.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Both poison lines are open around the clock.
- Take the plant, a photo of it or its label with you so the vet knows exactly what it is.
- Don't try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Cat-safe alternatives
The ASPCA lists these as non-toxic to cats. Any plant can still upset a cat's stomach if eaten in quantity, but none of these are poisonous:
Other garden plants: quick answers
| Plant | For cats |
|---|---|
| Tiger lily Lilium tigrinum (lancifolium) | Very dangerous |
| Daylily Hemerocallis species | Very dangerous |
| Tulip Tulipa species | Toxic |
| Daffodil Narcissus species | Toxic |
| Hyacinth Hyacinthus orientalis | Toxic |
| English ivy Hedera helix | Toxic |
| Azalea Rhododendron species | Toxic |
| Oleander Nerium oleander | Toxic |
| Hydrangea Hydrangea arborescens | Toxic |
| Geranium Pelargonium species | Toxic |
Frequently asked questions
Is lily of the valley toxic to cats?
Yes. Lily of the valley can be life-threatening for cats. Call a vet straight away.
What should I do if my cat ate lily of the valley?
Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Take the plant or a photo of it with you.
Sources
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.