Foods and Plants That Are Toxic to Cats

Key takeaways

• Lilies are a life-threatening emergency for cats.
• Never assume human food is safe for a cat.
• Vomiting, drooling, weakness, or breathing trouble may signal poisoning.
• Call a veterinarian promptly after any suspected exposure.
• Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian directs you.

Foods cats should not eat

Some human foods can cause serious illness in cats, even when only a small amount is eaten. Keep food, drinks, scraps, and cooking ingredients in secure containers.

• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks
• Chocolate, cocoa, coffee, and other caffeine sources
• Alcohol and unbaked yeast dough
• Grapes and raisins
• Products containing xylitol
• Raw or spoiled meat, fish, eggs, or bones

Especially dangerous plants

True lilies and daylilies are extremely dangerous to cats. Eating any part of the plant—or licking pollen or vase water—can cause sudden kidney failure. Suspected lily exposure requires immediate veterinary care, even if the cat seems well.

Other plants can irritate the mouth, affect the heart or nervous system, or damage organs. Plant names can be confusing, so have a veterinarian or animal poison-control service identify the exact plant.

• True lilies and daylilies
• Sago palm
• Oleander
• Autumn crocus
• Cyclamen
• Azalea and rhododendron

Common plants that cause irritation

Some popular houseplants contain irritating crystals or sap. They often cause mouth pain and stomach upset, but reactions can still be serious, especially if swelling affects swallowing or breathing.

• Dieffenbachia
• Philodendron
• Pothos
• Peace lily
• Caladium
• Aloe

Warning signs of poisoning

Signs vary depending on the substance and may appear right away or several hours later. A cat may also hide or behave differently before obvious symptoms develop.

• Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or trouble swallowing
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
• Weakness, hiding, unusual sleepiness, or collapse
• Tremors, seizures, or poor coordination
• Fast, slow, or difficult breathing
• Changes in thirst or urination

What to do after a possible exposure

Remove your cat from the area and prevent further exposure. If it is safe, save the package, food label, plant sample, or a clear photo to help with identification.

Call a veterinarian, emergency clinic, or animal poison-control service promptly. Do not wait for symptoms, and do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, oil, charcoal, or medication unless a veterinary professional specifically instructs you to do so.

• Note what was eaten or touched
• Estimate when the exposure occurred
• Bring packaging or a plant sample
• Use gloves when handling an unknown substance
• Go directly to emergency care for lilies, seizures, collapse, or breathing trouble

Preventing accidental poisoning

Store risky foods in closed cabinets or containers, and clear plates and spills promptly. Check every plant’s scientific name before bringing it into a cat’s environment.

Remember that bouquets, dried plant material, essential oils, fertilizers, and pesticides may also pose risks. Ask a veterinarian before using unfamiliar products around your cat.

• Keep counters and trash cans secure
• Place medications in closed cabinets
• Choose plants confirmed to be cat-safe
• Inspect bouquets before bringing them indoors
• Supervise cats in gardens and garages

When to call the vet

• Call a veterinarian immediately after any suspected toxin exposure, even if your cat has no symptoms. Seek emergency care now for lily exposure, breathing difficulty, seizures, collapse, severe weakness, repeated vomiting, or trouble swallowing.