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Plants that are toxic to cats

Lilies, sago palm, oleander, azaleas and rhododendrons, lily of the valley, tulips and hyacinths, daffodils, autumn crocus, cyclamen, kalanchoe and mistletoe can cause serious illness in cats.

Dieffenbachia, pothos, philodendron, monstera, peace lily, aloe vera, jade plant, snake plant, poinsettia, holly, Christmas trees, lucky bamboo, rubber plant, chrysanthemums, hydrangea, gardenia, ZZ plant, arrowhead plant, chinese evergreen, schefflera and catnip are mildly toxic to cats and usually cause mouth or stomach irritation.

Lilies are the most dangerous: the FDA warns that even a small bite of a true lily or daylily, its pollen or the water from its vase can cause kidney failure in cats.

Cats chew plants more than many owners expect, and some common houseplants and flowers can make them seriously ill. Each plant below links to its own page with symptoms and safer alternatives.

Shelters, clinics and teachers are welcome to print and hand out this list.

Toxic Toxic to cats: can cause serious illness (11)

Mildly toxic Mildly toxic to cats (21)

If your cat eats a toxic plant

  • Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away, even if your cat seems fine. With lilies, treatment works best when it starts early.
  • Take a photo of the plant or bring a piece of it, so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
  • Do not try to make your cat vomit at home unless a vet tells you to.
  • Move or remove the plant. Cats that chew plants once usually try again.
If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).

Sources

  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Lovely Lilies and Curious Cats: A Dangerous Combination.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
  • Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.

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Source and latest version: https://novquest.com/en/plants/toxic-to-cats/

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