Why limited
Keep lilies to small, occasional amounts. Sensitive pets may react to it, and sugar- or fat-heavy foods raise the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
All parts of true lilies (Lilium spp.) are extremely toxic to cats; even small amounts of pollen or petal can cause irreversible kidney failure. Dogs are less sensitive but may develop vomiting and drooling. Watch cats for lethargy, loss of appetite, increased thirst or reduced urination; dogs for vomiting and GI upset.
Dogs are rated “Feed with care” and cats “Do not feed”. If both share the house, go by the stricter of the two when you decide what to hand over.
If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.
Other foods that need limits
The full A–Z food list groups every food by verdict for each species.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat lilies?
CAUTION — limited. All parts of true lilies (Lilium spp.) are extremely toxic to cats; even small amounts of pollen or petal can cause irreversible kidney failure. Dogs are less sensitive but may develop vomiting and drooling. Watch cats for lethargy, loss of appetite, increased thirst or reduced urination; dogs for vomiting and GI upset.
How much lilies can dogs have?
Keep lilies to small, occasional pieces and never part of the main meal. It is classed as with care, so pets with a sensitive gut, pancreatitis or diabetes should skip lilies entirely.
What reaction should I watch for after dogs eats lilies?
In the 24 hours after dogs eats lilies, look for vomiting, diarrhoea, gas or a drop in appetite. All parts of true lilies (Lilium spp.) are extremely toxic to cats; even small amounts of pollen or petal can cause irreversible kidney failure. Dogs are less sensitive but may develop vomiting and drooling. Watch cats for lethargy, loss of appetite, increased thirst or reduced urination; dogs for vomiting and GI upset.
How often can dogs have lilies?
Save lilies for rare moments rather than building it into a routine; your dog may enjoy it, but that alone does not make it fit to feed often.
What are safer treats than lilies for dogs?
Pick from the safe list instead — Dill or Cilantro carry none of the risk that lilies does, and they work better as an everyday treat.