Toxic Plants for Cats
15 plants that can seriously harm or kill cats — from the deadly lily to common houseplants.
Lilies — The #1 Danger for Cats
All Lilium and Hemerocallis species can cause fatal kidney failure. Even pollen groomed off fur is lethal. Act within hours.
Lily
DangerousEXTREMELY DANGEROUS — the #1 plant poison for cats. Even pollen is lethal.
Sago Palm
DangerousEXTREMELY DANGEROUS — liver failure, often fatal.
Oleander
DangerousEXTREMELY DANGEROUS — cardiac glycosides, potentially fatal.
Castor Bean
DangerousEXTREMELY DANGEROUS — ricin causes organ failure.
Tulip
ToxicToxic — bulbs are most dangerous, causes GI upset.
Pothos (Devil's Ivy)
ToxicToxic — calcium oxalate crystals cause oral and GI irritation.
Philodendron
ToxicToxic — calcium oxalate crystals cause oral and GI irritation.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
ToxicToxic — calcium oxalate raphides cause severe oral swelling.
Azalea
ToxicToxic — grayanotoxins cause cardiac and GI effects.
Chrysanthemum
ToxicToxic — pyrethrins cause GI and neurological effects.
Lily of the Valley
ToxicToxic — cardiac glycosides affect the heart.
English Ivy
ToxicToxic — triterpenoid saponins cause GI upset.
Cyclamen
ToxicToxic — roots are most dangerous, causes severe GI effects.
Kalanchoe
ToxicToxic — bufadienolides affect the heart.
Wisteria
ToxicToxic — all parts contain a compound that causes vomiting and diarrhea; seeds and pods are most concentrated.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
CautionCaution — mild calcium oxalate irritation (less severe than true lilies).
Silvervine (Matatabi)
SafeYes — safe. A natural cat attractant similar to catnip, generally used in treats and toys.