What it does
Not a true lily. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and throat. The FDA lists pawing at the face, drooling, foaming, vomiting and diarrhea; signs usually settle on their own and breathing problems are uncommon.
If your cat ate some
- Move your cat away from the plant and take away any pieces, including fallen leaves and petals.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Both poison lines are open around the clock.
- Take the plant, a photo of it or its label with you so the vet knows exactly what it is.
- Don't try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Cat-safe alternatives
The ASPCA lists these as non-toxic to cats. Any plant can still upset a cat's stomach if eaten in quantity, but none of these are poisonous:
Other houseplants: quick answers
| Plant | For cats |
|---|---|
| Aloe vera Aloe vera | Toxic |
| Jade plant Crassula argentea | Toxic |
| Snake plant Sansevieria trifasciata (mother-in-law's tongue) | Toxic |
| Golden pothos Epipremnum aureum | Toxic |
| Philodendron Philodendron species | Toxic |
| Monstera Monstera deliciosa (cutleaf philodendron) | Toxic |
| Dieffenbachia Dieffenbachia (dumb cane) | Toxic |
| Sago palm Cycas revoluta | Toxic |
| Poinsettia Euphorbia pulcherrima | Toxic |
| Rubber plant (weeping fig) Ficus benjamina | Toxic |
| Cyclamen Cyclamen species | Toxic |
| Kalanchoe Kalanchoe species | Toxic |
Frequently asked questions
Is peace lily toxic to cats?
Yes, mildly. Peace lily irritates a cat's mouth and stomach but does not cause kidney failure.
What should I do if my cat ate peace lily?
Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Take the plant or a photo of it with you.
Sources
- U.S. FDA, "Lovely Lilies and Curious Cats: A Dangerous Combination" (current as of Sep 16, 2021)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "Plants Toxic to Cats" list
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.