The big one: lilies
True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) are extremely toxic to cats. Eating a leaf or a petal, licking pollen off their fur, or even drinking water from the vase can cause kidney failure within 1 to 3 days. If your cat has had any contact with a lily, it is an emergency. Go to a vet immediately, because treatment within 18 hours greatly improves survival.
Foods toxic to cats
- Onions, garlic, chives, leeks: cats are even more sensitive than dogs. Watch out for baby food and gravies with onion powder.
- Chocolate and caffeine: same stimulants as in dogs, though cats rarely eat sweets.
- Alcohol: a tiny amount can be dangerous.
- Grapes and raisins: kidney injury has been reported.
- Raw dough: rises in the stomach and produces alcohol.
- Milk: not poisonous, but most adult cats are lactose intolerant.
- Tuna as a main diet: fine as a treat. A diet of mostly human-grade tuna lacks nutrients and risks mercury build-up.
Medicines and household risks
Never give cats acetaminophen (paracetamol/Tylenol). One tablet can be fatal. Dog flea treatments containing permethrin are a common cause of seizures in cats. Essential oils (tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus) in diffusers or on fur can also cause harm.
Signs of poisoning in cats
Drooling, vomiting, hiding, not eating, wobbliness, tremors, fast breathing, and drinking or peeing more or less than usual. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
Frequently asked questions
Which flowers are toxic to cats?
True lilies and daylilies are the most dangerous. Tulip bulbs, daffodils, azaleas, oleander, sago palm and autumn crocus are also toxic. Roses, sunflowers and orchids are generally considered safe.
Can cats eat dog food?
A few bites won’t hurt, but dog food lacks taurine and other nutrients cats need, so it can’t be their regular diet.