Is Wood Lily Toxic to Cats?

For many cat owners, it's important to understand which plants are safe and which are toxic for their pets. One plant that has been the subject of considerable debate is the Wood Lily. Some sources indicate that this plant is toxic to cats, while others say it's safe. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Wood Lilies and explore whether they are potentially harmful to feline friends.

What is a Wood Lily?

Wood Lilies (Lilium philadelphicum) are a type of perennial flower native to North America. They are typically found in woodlands and meadows and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The flowers have six distinct petals that are bright orange-red and dotted with dark spots. These plants are also known as the "Red Lily" and the "Wild Orange Lily".

Are Wood Lilies Toxic to Cats?

The consensus among veterinarians and pet experts is that Wood Lilies are toxic to cats. These flowers contain high levels of toxins called Lycorine and other alkaloids. These compounds are found in all parts of the plant, including the flowers, leaves, stems, and roots. The ingestion of any part of the Wood Lily can cause a range of severe symptoms in cats.

What Happens When Cats Ingest Wood Lily?

When a cat ingests any part of the Wood Lily plant, they can experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Death (in severe cases)

The onset of symptoms can vary depending on the amount ingested and the size of the cat. In some cases, symptoms may not appear for several hours after ingestion.

What Should I Do If My Cat Ingests Wood Lily?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of the Wood Lily plant, it's crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to absorb any remaining toxins. In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care may be necessary.

How Can I Keep My Cat Safe From Wood Lily?

The best way to keep your cat safe from Wood Lily is to keep any plants out of their reach. These plants should be kept in outdoor areas that your cat does not have access to, or in rooms that are off-limits to your pet. Additionally, you should consider putting up barriers or fencing around any outdoor gardens to prevent your cat from coming into contact with Wood Lilies and other toxic plants.

Conclusion

Wood Lilies are indeed toxic to cats. The ingestion of any part of this plant can cause a range of severe symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death. If you believe that your cat has ingested any part of a Wood Lily, it's crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. With proper precautions, including keeping these plants out of your pet's reach, you can help keep your feline friends safe and healthy.

Sources

• "Wood Lily Poisoning in Cats." Pet Poison Helpline, December 17, 2020, https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/wood-lily/
• HGIC 2319 Lily, Wood Lily, Philadelphia Lily. Clemson Cooperative Extension, https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/lily-wood-lily-philadelphia-lily/
• "Lilium philadelphicum." Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d., https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b420