Are Tiger lilies toxic to cats?
Yes. Tiger lilies (Lilium lancifolium) are true lilies and cause acute kidney failure in cats, just like Easter lilies and stargazers.
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Key facts
- Verdict: No — dangerous to cats. Tiger lilies should never be given deliberately.
- Category: Lily
- Onset: Signs can start 0–3 hours — see the full timeline below.
- If it's already happened: Call your vet now, or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, charges apply) — see the emergency steps below.
If your cat has just eaten tiger lilies
- Call your vet or emergency vet immediately.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- If you can't reach your vet, call Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) — paid triage, 24/7.
- Wipe pollen off fur with a damp cloth.
What's the full picture?
Tiger lilies (Lilium lancifolium) are true lilies and cause the same acute kidney failure as other Lilium species. Every part of the plant, including pollen, is toxic.
Tiger lilies are common in UK garden centres and cut-flower arrangements. If you have a cat, they should not enter the house — pollen on fur is enough to kill a cat that grooms it off.
Treatment must start within 18 hours for the best chance of recovery. Call your vet immediately if any lily exposure is suspected, regardless of how small.
Symptoms to watch for
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Cat owner essentials
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If your cat keeps returning to the wrong plant, a pet-safe plant deterrent spray can break the habit without harm.
Recommended for cat owners
Related
Sources referenced for this guidance
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) — UK clinical toxicology reference used by vets
- International Cat Care — feline-specific clinical guidance
- BSAVA — British Small Animal Veterinary Association reference materials
- Merck Veterinary Manual — professional veterinary reference
About this guidance
Every entry on this site is compiled from published UK veterinary toxicology sources — International Cat Care, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) references, RCVS-registered practice materials, and peer-reviewed feline medicine literature. Where the evidence is mixed, we err on the cautious side because cats are unusually sensitive to many common substances that are harmless to humans and even to dogs.
This is general information written for UK cat owners. It is not personalised veterinary advice for your specific cat, their age, weight, medical history, or the exact exposure you're dealing with. If your cat has eaten something or is unwell, call your vet first. The Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 is available 24/7 for a small fee and can tell you whether an emergency visit is needed.
Entries are reviewed and updated as new research emerges. Spotted an error? Let us know — corrections are investigated and applied within 24 hours. For more context on how we work, see about and our full disclaimer.
Last reviewed: · By the What Can My Cat Eat? editorial team