Why lilies are so dangerous
The FDA lists the tiger lily among the true lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) that are highly toxic to cats. The entire plant is toxic: stem, leaves, flowers, pollen and even the water in the vase. A cat can be poisoned by chewing a leaf or petal, or by licking a few pollen grains off its fur.
What happens
The FDA describes early signs within 0 to 12 hours: less activity, drooling, vomiting and loss of appetite. Signs of kidney damage (more urination, then dehydration) appear around 12 to 24 hours, and kidney failure follows within 24 to 72 hours. If treatment is delayed by 18 hours or more, the cat will generally have irreversible kidney failure. The toxin affects cats only; dogs may get a mild stomach upset.
The safe rule
Don't bring true lilies or daylilies into a home with a cat, including in bouquets, and don't plant them where a cat roams. Check every bouquet you are given.
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.
With lilies, time matters. The FDA says that if treatment is delayed by 18 hours or more, a cat will generally have irreversible kidney failure. Go to a vet even if your cat seems fine. Read the full lily guide.
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 |
|---|---|
| Daylily Hemerocallis species | Very dangerous |
| Lily of the valley Convallaria majalis | 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 tiger lily toxic to cats?
Yes, extremely. Every part of the tiger lily, even pollen or vase water, can cause kidney failure in cats. Get to a vet straight away.
What should I do if my cat ate tiger lily?
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.