Asian lily or also known for its other names oriental lily and Asiatic lily is known to be the most hazardous and lethal plant for cats. Even small ingestions of petals and leaves, or even the pollen and water from the vase with Asian lily, may cause acute kidney failure or even death.
What Is Asian Lily or Lilium Asiatica?
Scientifically known as Lilium Asiatica, Asian Lily is a trumpet-shaped flower that comes in practically every color imaginable. Due to their aesthetic value, Asian lilies are very popular houseplants, decorations, and are given as bouquets. Its bright green pointed leaves contrast beautifully with the colorful, flamboyant blossoms.
As its name suggests, these pretty flowers are native to Asia. These beautiful and colorful Asian lilies might look perfect to your garden but it is considered dangerous to cats.
Clinical Signs of Asian Lily Poisoning in Cats
Poisoning from Asian lilies can be fatal for your cat in a matter of minutes. If your cat is showing any indications of poisoning, you should take him or her to the doctor right once to ensure the best possible outcome.
To avoid acute kidney injury, Asian lily poisoning must be treated quickly. If your feline experience any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian right once.
- Vomiting
- Appetite loss
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Hiding
- Behavioral changes
- Seizures
- Shock
- Loss of weight
- Lethargy
- Vomit or stool stained with blood
First Aid and Treatment of Asian Lily Poisoning in Cats
Induced vomiting or the use of activated charcoal to inhibit toxin absorption may be used as an emergency treatment. removing the toxic principles from the cat’s body is the primary purpose of the said treatments. Within eighteen hours of the initial poisoning, intravenous fluid treatment must be administered. Nutritional therapy may be also required if your cat is vomiting a lot.
In case of kidney failure, your cat may need to be admitted to the hospital for up to four days, depending on the severity of his or her condition. An aggressive fluid treatment regimen will be used to treat acute kidney failure to reestablish electrolyte and fluid balance.
Recovery from Asian Lily Poisoning in Cats
Recovery from Asian lily poisoning depends on the promptness of medical attention given to your cat. If your cat suffered from kidney damage, recovery may take a little more time. Make sure to follow the veterinarians’ after-treatment instructions. Once you return home, ensure your cat has a warm, safe place to rest.
Prevention of Asian Lily in Cats
If the cause of your cat’s poisoning is from Asian lilies in your home, discard them right away. If Asian lilies are present in your neighborhood, it is highly recommended to keep your cat safe inside your home. Familiarize yourself with both toxic and non-toxic plants to ensure your cat’s wellness and safety.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
