When flowers are fatal

writes I’ve discovered that lilies (various species) can be deadly when it comes to cats. My cat Max drinks water from vases and he got some of the pollen on his fur. A friend advised me to take him to the vet; as a precautionary measure, a kidney function test was done on him and he was put on a drip. What symptoms should cat owners look out for and which type of lilies are toxic?

Dr Analize Theron, a veterinarian at Fourways Vet

Hospital, replies Lilies are a symbol of purity and innocence but these beautiful flowers are dangerous when it comes to our feline friends. In the Lilium (true lilies) and Hemerocallis (day lilies) genera there are several species that cause renal failure in cats. These include plants such as day lilies, tiger lilies and even St Joseph’s lilies.

As it happens, only cats are affected, and all parts of the plant are toxic (leaves and flowers). Even the ingestion of just one leaf can be toxic and the flowers are more poisonous than the leaves. In fact, the pollen and water in the vase can also be toxic.

Fortunately, it’s rare for a cat to eat this plant or its flowers, but lily poisoning can be fatal. The first signs of poisoning are vomiting, loss of appetite and lethargy which can then turn into acute renal failure (excessive urination and abdominal pain) within 24 to 72 hours. If the cat survives the acute phase, the damage to the kidneys can be permanent, resulting in chronic kidney failure.

There is no antidote, but decontamination and intravenous fluid treatment within the first few hours after ingestion can save a cat’s life. If you notice any of the above symptoms or if you suspect that your cat has chewed on the plants, take him or her to your nearest vet immediately.

Place bouquets containing lilies in places where cats can’t smell, chew or rub against the plants out of curiosity. If they get pollen on their fur, wash it off immediately.

Luckily, our floral kingdom is vast and there are many other beautiful blooms that you can use in your garden and home.

011 705 3411, fourwaysvet.co.za