What Happens When A Cat Smells A Lily: Potential Dangers Unveiled

What are the potential consequences if your cat sniffs a lily? It’s important to be aware that lilies, despite coming in various species with “lily” in their name, do not all pose the same level of danger to your feline friend. In fact, there are two specific species of lilies that are particularly toxic to cats: true lilies (belonging to the Lilium species) and daylilies (from the Hemerocallis species). These two types of lilies were among the top five common exposures in 2020, and when ingested, they can lead to severe kidney failure in cats. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and prevent your cat from coming into contact with these specific lily varieties to ensure their well-being. (Updated information as of September 30, 2022.)

Are most cats able to survive lily poisoning? The prognosis for cats affected by lily poisoning can be quite dire. Initially, signs of poisoning may appear to improve after onset, providing a glimmer of hope. However, these improvements can be deceptive, as they are often followed by a rapid progression of worsening symptoms. In many cases, if left untreated, lily poisoning can lead to death within a short window of 12-24 hours. The mortality rate associated with lily poisoning in cats can be staggering, ranging from 50% to 100%. This information underscores the urgency of seeking immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has ingested lilies. (Date: February 14, 2018)