Peace Lily Toxicosis
Despite their name, Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum spp.) are not true lilies. Peace lilies are not members of the Liliaceae family that contains true lilies. Instead, they belong to the Araceae family, and the “lily” label comes from the white, petal-like spathe that resembles a lily’s bloom.
This difference is important because true lilies are extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure, while peace lilies, although still toxic, generally cause oral irritation rather than life-threatening illness.
Why Are Peace Lilies Toxic?
Peace lilies contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat or dog chews the plant, these sharp crystals embed into tissues of the mouth and throat, causing immediate pain and irritation.
Signs of Peace Lily Toxicity in Pets
Drooling
Pawing at the mouth or face
Oral pain or reluctance to eat
Vomiting
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth
Most cases are uncomfortable but not life-threatening.
Peace Lily vs. True Lilies: Key Differences for Cats
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Effects: Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, swelling
Kidneys: No risk of kidney failure
Outcome: Painful but usually resolves with supportive care
Peace Lily
True Lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis spp.)
Examples: Easter lily, tiger lily, stargazer lily, Asiatic lily, daylily
Toxin: Highly nephrotoxic compound (exact agent unknown)
Effects: Vomiting, lethargy, rapid onset acute kidney failure
Kidneys: Severe, often irreversible kidney damage in 1–3 days
Outcome: Emergency treatment and hospitalization often needed
Stargazer Lily
What You Can Do at Home
Rinse your pet’s mouth gently with water to help remove crystals
Do not allow further chewing or access to the plant
Offer water if your pet is willing
Contact Animal Poison Control for Guidance on further care
ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Call animal poison control if you suspect ingestion. They will guide you as to the need to seek further veterinary care.
Veterinary care is especially important if:
Vomiting is persistent
Swelling interferes with eating, drinking, or breathing
The amount ingested is unclear
What to Expect at the Vet
Oral exam to check for irritation and swelling
Medications for nausea and pain control
IV fluids if dehydration or inappetence occurs
Most pets recover quickly with supportive care.
Final Thought
Peace lilies can cause significant oral irritation in pets but do not damage the kidneys. Knowing the difference between true lilies and peace lilies is essential for keeping your pets safe.
Gal Chivvis, DVM
