Peace Lily Is Toxic To Cats 🐈

Spathiphyllum wallisii

By Kiersten Rankel

Jun 08, 20243 min read

Protect your purring pals 🐱 from the sneaky dangers of Peace Lilies 🌱 lurking in your home!

Peace lily
  1. 🐱🌿 Peace Lilies are toxic to cats, causing symptoms like drooling and vomiting.
  2. 🚫 Prevent contact by using deterrents and placing plants out of reach.
  3. 🩺 Immediate veterinary care is crucial for recovery from Peace Lily toxicity.

Preventing Peace Lily Toxicity in Cats

🐱 Keeping Cats Safe

Cats and Peace Lilies are a bit like oil and water - they just don't mix. While Peace Lilies are not as toxic as some of their more nefarious floral relatives, they still pack a punch. Insoluble oxalates, microscopic needle-like crystals, are the troublemakers here. When a curious cat chews on the plant, these crystals cause an immediate burning sensation, leading to drooling, excessive licking, pawing at the mouth, and even vomiting.

So, how can you keep your feline friend safe?

Placement and containment are the keys. Consider placing your Peace Lilies on high shelves or using hanging planters. Cats are agile, but they're not superheroes. They can't leap tall buildings in a single bound, so the higher the better. If your cat is a bit of a climber, you might want to try deterrents. Bitter sprays or citrus scents can work wonders. Cats generally dislike the texture of aluminum foil or double-sided tape, so placing these around the base of your plants can also be an effective strategy.

🌿 Safe Alternatives and Substitutions

If you're a cat owner who loves houseplants, don't despair. There are plenty of cat-friendly alternatives to Peace Lilies.

Choosing non-toxic plants not only ensures the well-being of your feline companion but also allows you to enjoy your green thumb guilt-free. After all, who wants to be constantly worrying about their cat nibbling on a potentially harmful plant?

Remember, the goal here is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for both you and your cat. So, do your research, consult with your vet, and choose plants that are safe for your feline friend. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and a happy, healthy cat.

Healthy peace lily in blue ceramic pot on glass table, lush green leaves, no discoloration or disease visible.

Responding to Peace Lily Toxicity

🚨 Immediate Actions

First things first, if you suspect your cat has had a tango with a Peace Lily, don't panic. Stay calm and act swiftly. Remove any plant remnants from your cat's mouth, paws, or fur. Then, move your cat to a safe, plant-free zone.

Next up, identify the plant your cat has interacted with. If it's indeed a Peace Lily, contact your veterinarian immediately. If it's after hours, reach out to an emergency vet's office. Let them know what's happened and that you're on your way.

Veterinary Care and Treatment

Once you're at the vet, they'll take over. They're the pros, after all. They'll likely start by providing supportive care. This could include administering steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs, especially if your cat is having difficulty breathing.

Treatment doesn't end at the vet's office, though. You'll need to keep a close eye on your cat once you're back home. Monitor their symptoms and follow your vet's instructions to the letter.

Recovery can vary. Some cats bounce back quickly, while others may need a bit more time. It's important to remember that each cat is unique, and their recovery will be too.

In the end, it's all about ensuring your feline friend gets back to their usual, mischievous self. And remember, a little bit of extra cuddling never hurt anyone. Especially not a cat on the mend.

Peace lily plant with large green leaves in a pink pot, one leaf showing slight yellowing being held up by a hand.
A thriving peace lily plant with lush green leaves and a prominent white flower, in a neutral pot against a light background.

Keep your cats safe 🐱 from Peace Lilies by using Greg to discover cat-friendly plant alternatives and create a green, feline-friendly environment in your home!


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You Might Also Want to Know...

What specific compounds in Peace Lilies are harmful to cats?

The specific compounds in Peace Lilies that are harmful to cats are calcium oxalate crystals.

What are the potential effects of Peace Lily toxicity on cats?

Peace Lily toxicity can cause adverse effects on the feline digestive and respiratory systems.

What are the symptoms of Peace Lily toxicity in cats?

Symptoms of Peace Lily toxicity in cats include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Can cats be affected by Easter lilies?

Yes, Easter lilies, which belong to the lilium or hemerocallis species, are extremely poisonous to cats.

Are Easter lilies poisonous to dogs?

No, Easter lilies are not poisonous to dogs.

What should I do if my cat ingests or comes into contact with a Peace Lily?

If your cat ingests or comes into contact with a Peace Lily, you should contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control for life-saving advice.

What is the treatment for Lily toxicity in cats?

The treatment for Lily toxicity in cats involves inducing vomiting, administering charcoal to bind the toxins, and providing aggressive IV fluids to flush the kidneys.

How long should a cat be monitored after Lily toxicity treatment?

A cat should be monitored for about two to three days after Lily toxicity treatment, with daily blood work to check for any kidney damage.

Is it expensive to hospitalize a cat for Lily toxicity treatment?

Yes, hospitalizing a cat for Lily toxicity treatment can be quite costly.

What is the best way to prevent Peace Lily toxicity in cats?

The best way to prevent Peace Lily toxicity in cats is to avoid bringing any Easter lilies or other potentially poisonous plants into your household.