Cat owners need to be aware of the dangers of Easter lilies and other members of the lily family. As we approach the Easter season and the emergence of lilies in the garden, the ASPCA and AWC are reminding cat owners that exposure to any part of the lily plant can cause kidney failure. Toxic lilies include: Easter lily, Tiger lily, Rubrum lily, Japanese show lily and some species of the common Day lily.

Within a few hours of ingestion of even a small amount of the plant material the cat may begin vomiting, become lethargic and inappetent. These signs signal the development of kidney failure so owners should never wait to see if symptoms will develop as it is often too late by then. Treatment must begin immediately to be successful.

Most poisonings occur inside the home from lilies that are part of a bouquet or Easter lily plant. It is important to know that cats are so sensitive to this toxin that even brushing up against the flower and later licking the pollen from their coats during grooming can be deadly.

Keep all lilies in an area that is inaccessible to your cat or, better yet, remove them from your home. Seek immediate veterinary care for any cat that has been exposed.