Symptoms of Cat Poisoning From Lilies

Lilies are popular plants in bouquets and gardens. You can find lilies both inside and outside of homes throughout the nation. They come in a variety of colors and designs. Unfortunately this plant contains toxins that have proven to cause kidney damage, renal failure and death in felines.

  1. Vomiting

    • Vomiting is typically the first sign of lily poisoning in felines. Vomiting can occur in as little as 30 minutes after the initial ingestion but it may take up to 2 hours before the onset of the first symptom. The vomiting may subside after a few hours but that in no means indicates that your cat is recovering.

    Lethargy

    • Lethargy will present itself with or after the vomiting. You cat will be inactive, appear sluggish and tired. Your cat will also have a loss of appetite.

    Polydipsia

    • Polydipsia typically presents itself in the same time frame as the lethargy. Polydipsia is excess thirst so if your cat's increase in water will increase greatly. No matter who much your cat drinks, she will still feel thirsty and seek out more.

    Acute Renal Failure

    • Acute renal failure is the rapid loss of kidney function. Within one to three days after the initial ingestion of the lily, the toxins will make its way to your cat's kidneys and begin to shut them down. New symptoms, such as diarrhea and seizures, may appear with the onset of acute renal failure.

    Death

    • The toxins that are naturally found in lilies can be fatal to felines. Death is the last stage in the toxins deadly reign. Death can occur in three days after initial ingestion of the toxins but typically occurs within five days. More than 50 percent of cats will not survive lily poisoning.