Yes, peace lily plants are toxic to cats.
Belonging to the Araceae family, peace lily plants are also known as spath lilies due to their scientific name, Spathiphyllum. There are approximately 47 species of this flowering plant that commonly grows in tropical areas. They are popular for having flowers in spadix form—tiny blooms that spring from one fleshy stem. The spadix is accompanied by a large leaf-shape spathe. This can either be in green, yellow, or white.
Also called Mauna Loa plant and white sails, the ASPCA reports that peace lily plants are toxic to both cats and dogs. Just like Chinese evergreen plants that belong to the same family, they contain insoluble calcium oxalates. When ingested, they can cause gastrointestinal complications. However, Pet Poison Helpline states that this type of lily does not cause acute kidney failure in cats.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats peace lily plants: Clinical signs such as intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips may manifest in your cat. In addition, watch for excess drooling, vomiting, and difficulty in swallowing. Report your observations to your veterinarian to get the appropriate treatment for your feline pet.
The Australian Poisons Helpline shares that in most cases, the aforementioned symptoms can decrease after feeding your cat a cool demulcent such as lactose-free milk or yoghurt. However, it’s best to get your vet’s advice before feeding your pet anything.
In summary: Peace lilies are well-liked indoor houseplants because they can thrive in heavily shaded areas and low light conditions. Nevertheless, they are not ideal plants for cat owners as their microscopic needle-like crystals can cause unwanted effects.
Play it safe by checking these lists from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, and PetMD before growing a new plant inside your home or in your backyard.
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