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Is Calla Lily toxic to cats?

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Toxic to cats

Yes — calla 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. The ASPCA lists Zantedeschia aethiopica as toxic to both dogs and cats. Although called a "lily," it is actually an aroid (family Araceae) whose tissues contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. It is unrelated to true lilies but should still be kept away from pets.

What to do if your cat ate calla lily

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move calla 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 calla lily to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is calla lily toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is calla lily toxic to cats?

Yes — calla lily is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Zantedeschia aethiopica as toxic to both dogs and cats. Although called a "lily," it is actually an aroid (family Araceae) whose tissues contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. It is unrelated to true lilies but should still be kept away from pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats calla lily?

The ASPCA lists Zantedeschia aethiopica as toxic to both dogs and cats. Although called a "lily," it is actually an aroid (family Araceae) whose tissues contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. It is unrelated to true lilies but should still be kept away from pets. 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 calla lily.

What should I do if my cat ate calla 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 calla lily toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to calla lily?

Good cat-safe swaps that keep a similar look include freesia, gerbera daisy, cape primrose — all ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs. See the full pet-safe alternatives to calla lily.

Full calla lily pet-safety