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Is Arum Lily toxic to cats?

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Toxic to cats

Yes — arum lily is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Zantedeschia aethiopica is confirmed toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA (listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database). The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) present in all parts of the plant. Clinical signs include intense oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.

What to do if your cat ate arum lily

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move arum lily out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of arum lily to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten arum lily, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is arum lily toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is arum lily toxic to cats?

Yes — arum lily is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Zantedeschia aethiopica is confirmed toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA (listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database). The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) present in all parts of the plant. Clinical signs include intense oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats arum lily?

Zantedeschia aethiopica is confirmed toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA (listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database). The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) present in all parts of the plant. Clinical signs include intense oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Seek veterinary attention immediately if ingestion is suspected. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to arum lily.

What should I do if my cat ate arum lily?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is arum lily toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Arum Lily is toxic to dogs as well. See the full arum lily pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to arum lily?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full arum lily pet-safety