Dear Christopher Cat
I love Easter lilies, and so do my cats -– but they try to chew on them! Is this safe?
Christopher Responds
I like to play in my mom’s flowers as much as the next cat, but she has made it clear to me that Easter lilies -– and several other types of lilies, including tiger lilies and day lilies -– are toxic to us cats.
These lilies cause kidney failure in cats. All parts of the plants are poisonous, and a cat who eats even one leaf can die.
Within a few hours of ingestion, the poisoned cat may vomit and have little energy or appetite. Aggressive veterinary treatment can be life-saving, but it must begin immediately.
So enjoy your favorite Easter lilies at public gardens, or even in your own garden -– but not where cats can get to them.
|
