Is lily toxic to dogs?
Yes, certain types of lilies are toxic to dogs, but the effects are much less severe than in cats. Ingesting true lilies from the Lilium or Hemerocallis genus (such as Tiger, Asiatic, and Easter lilies) can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, whereas they cause life-threatening kidney failure in cats. It is critical to distinguish these from other plants that share the name, like Peace Lilies and Calla Lilies, which contain different toxins and cause oral irritation.
While lily poisoning in dogs is not typically life-threatening, the symptoms can cause significant discomfort and may require veterinary care. Because of the extreme danger to felines, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) and other veterinary experts advise keeping true lilies out of any home with pets.
Toxic dose by dog weight
There is no established toxic dose of lily for dogs that correlates to specific outcomes like mild or severe signs. Unlike in cats, where any part of the plant in any amount is considered life-threatening, the toxicity in dogs is generally limited to gastrointestinal upset. A dog's reaction depends on the amount eaten and their individual sensitivity.
| Dog Weight | Mild Symptoms (e.g., drooling, vomiting once) | Moderate/Severe Symptoms (e.g., persistent vomiting, diarrhea) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs |
| 25 lbs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs |
| 50 lbs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs |
| 75 lbs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs | Data limited; any amount may cause signs |
Any ingestion should be considered potentially toxic. The primary risk for dogs is gastrointestinal upset, not the acute kidney failure seen in cats. Always contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Symptoms timeline
Symptoms of lily ingestion in dogs are usually related to gastrointestinal upset and appear relatively quickly. If signs progress beyond mild stomach upset, contact a veterinarian.
- 0-2 Hours: Vomiting, drooling, pawing at the mouth, and loss of appetite are common initial signs.
- 2-6 Hours: Diarrhea and lethargy may begin to develop.
- 6-24 Hours: Persistent vomiting or diarrhea can become a concern, increasing the risk of dehydration. This warrants veterinary attention.
- 24+ Hours: If signs continue, dehydration and persistent lethargy are the primary concerns. Immediate veterinary consultation is advised if symptoms have not resolved.
What to do right now
Dog poison control: phone numbers, fees and when to call. If you know or suspect your dog has eaten any part of a lily plant, take immediate steps to assess the situation and contact a professional. Do not induce vomiting without veterinary instruction.
- Remove the Plant: Immediately take away any remaining plant material from your dog.
- Identify the Lily: If possible, identify the type of lily. Take a photo of the plant for a veterinarian or poison control expert. True lilies (Lilium, Hemerocallis) are the primary concern.
- Contact a Professional: Call your veterinarian, the Pet Poison Helpline, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) right away for guidance. They can assess the risk based on the type of lily and your dog's size.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting: It is crucial not to induce vomiting at home unless a veterinary professional specifically instructs you to do so.
When to call a vet
You should always call a veterinarian or poison control hotline if you suspect your dog has ingested a lily. While less dangerous to dogs than cats, professional guidance is critical for the following situations:
- You are unsure what kind of lily your dog ate.
- Your dog is showing symptoms beyond mild, transient vomiting (e.g., repeated vomiting, severe diarrhea, lethargy, or refusal to eat).
- You have a small dog that ate a large amount of plant material.
- Your dog has pre-existing health conditions, especially gastrointestinal or kidney issues.
How X compares to other common toxins
Understanding how lily toxicity in dogs compares to other plant toxins can provide helpful context for the level of risk involved. While true lilies cause stomach upset in dogs, other common household plants can have more severe or different effects.
Unlike Sago Palms, which can cause severe liver failure, or certain mushrooms that can be fatal, lily ingestion in dogs is typically manageable and self-limiting. It is often compared to Peace Lilies or Calla Lilies, which are not "true lilies" but contain oxalate crystals that cause intense oral pain and irritation, rather than the gastrointestinal effects of true lilies.