Peace lilies ( Spathiphyllum ) are popular houseplants, loved for their elegant white flowers and air-purifying qualities. Many cat owners appreciate their beauty, but a common concern arises: are peace lilies toxic to cats? Given the similarity in name to true lilies, which are highly poisonous to cats, this is a valid and important question. Let’s delve into the facts about peace lilies and their toxicity to cats to help you make informed decisions for your pet’s safety.
Are Peace Lilies Poisonous to Cats? Understanding the Toxicity
While peace lilies are not as severely toxic as true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis), they are indeed considered poisonous to cats. The toxicity stems from insoluble calcium oxalate crystals present in all parts of the peace lily plant. When a cat chews or bites into a peace lily, these microscopic, needle-shaped crystals are released.
Upon contact with the soft tissues of a cat’s mouth, tongue, and throat, these oxalate crystals cause immediate and significant irritation. This irritation leads to a range of unpleasant symptoms that, while typically not life-threatening, can be distressing for your feline companion.
Common Symptoms of Peace Lily Poisoning in Cats
If your cat has interacted with or ingested a peace lily, you might observe several signs of poisoning. The most common symptoms include:
- Oral irritation: This is often the first and most noticeable sign. Your cat may exhibit excessive drooling, pawing at their mouth, and lip-smacking due to a burning sensation in their mouth and on their tongue.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva production is a direct response to the irritation caused by the oxalate crystals.
- Vomiting: Ingestion of peace lily plant material can lead to stomach upset and vomiting.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Pain and swelling in the mouth and throat can make swallowing difficult and painful for your cat.
- Loss of Appetite: Due to oral discomfort, your cat may refuse to eat.
In rare and more severe cases, swelling of the tissues in the upper airway can occur. This swelling could potentially lead to breathing difficulties, though this is not a common occurrence with peace lily ingestion.
Peace Lilies vs. True Lilies: Knowing the Difference is Crucial
It’s vital to distinguish between peace lilies and true lilies because their toxicity levels and effects on cats are vastly different. True lilies, belonging to the Lilium and Hemerocallis genera (such as Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and Asiatic lilies), are extremely toxic to cats. Even ingesting a small amount of a true lily can cause severe kidney failure and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Peace lilies, while causing oral irritation, do not cause kidney failure or the same level of systemic toxicity as true lilies. This difference is critical for cat owners to understand to accurately assess the risk and seek appropriate veterinary care if needed.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Peace Lily
If you suspect your cat has chewed on or ingested part of a peace lily, immediate action can help alleviate their discomfort.
- Offer a Demulcent: Administering a cool demulcent like plain yogurt or lactose-free milk can help soothe the irritation in your cat’s mouth and throat. These substances coat the mucous membranes and can provide relief.
- Monitor Your Cat: Observe your cat for the symptoms mentioned above. In most cases, the symptoms will be mild and will subside relatively quickly.
- Contact Your Veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline: If your cat’s symptoms are severe, worsen, or do not improve after initial first aid, it is essential to contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately for professional advice. They can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. In Australia, you can contact the Animal Poisons Centre at 1300-TOX-PET (1300 869 738) for guidance.
Creating a Safe Environment: Plants and Cats
To minimize the risk of peace lily poisoning, consider these preventative measures:
- Keep Peace Lilies Out of Reach: Place peace lilies in locations inaccessible to your cat, such as high shelves or hanging planters.
- Choose Cat-Safe Plants: Opt for houseplants that are non-toxic to cats. Many beautiful and safe alternatives are available, such as spider plants, ferns, and prayer plants.
- Deterrents: If your cat is persistent in approaching plants, consider using pet-safe deterrent sprays or placing citrus peels around the plants, as cats generally dislike citrus scents.
Conclusion: Peace Lilies and Cats – Caution is Key
While peace lilies pose a lower toxicity risk to cats compared to true lilies, they are still poisonous and can cause unpleasant symptoms. If you have a cat that tends to nibble on plants, it’s best to exercise caution and consider keeping peace lilies out of your home or in locations where your cat cannot access them. Prioritizing your cat’s safety and well-being ensures a harmonious and healthy environment for both you and your feline friend.
