If you have pets, don’t bring lilies

Dear Cathy: We just lost our beloved cat because she ate a lily flower. Could you remind your readers of the dangers of this plant to cats? Our hearts are broken but maybe a little education might save somebody else from this heartache. — Shelley K., Tucson, AZ

Dear Shelley: I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for wanting to share your story to warn others. Lilies are a common cut-flower that are extremely poisonous to cats. Asiatic lilies, (including hybrids), Daylilies, Japanese Snow Lilies, Stargazer Lilies, Tiger Lilies, and Wood Lilies all fall into this category.

The entire plant is toxic. Exposure to any part of it, whether leaf, flower, pollen or even the water in the vase, is considered a medical emergency and leads to acute kidney failure in cats. These particular lilies are not fatal to dogs but can cause a serious digestive-upset.

Exposure to the Lily of the Valley plant, however, is toxic to cats and dogs (and people) and can cause cardiac arrythmias and death. Gloriosa Lily can cause multi-system failure in cats and dogs that chew on them.

Calla lilies and Peace lilies are less toxic but can cause respiratory distress and irritation to your pet’s mouth, tongue, throat and esophagus.

The takeaway here is simple: If you have pets, don’t bring lilies into your home.

Dear Cathy: Great column on rabbits. I’m glad you suggested adoption. I also would like to suggest fostering a rabbit. My local SPCA needs foster families for rabbits as well as dogs and cats. — Marcee S., Las Vegas, NV

Dear Marcee: That’s a great suggestion. There are all sorts of rescue groups and animal shelters that might want foster families to care for their abandoned rabbits until they find a forever home.

Be a rabbit foster parent. This would be a great way to decide if a rabbit is right for your family.