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Can the Solomon’s Lily Plant be Harmful to Cats? 

Gothic-style artistic depiction of Solomon’s Lily (Arum palaestinum) with intricate detailing.

Solomon’s Lily, also known as Arum Lily or Calla Lily, is a popular ornamental plant that can be toxic to cats. While cats are not necessarily allergic to this plant, ingesting any part of it can cause severe poisoning.

Solomon’s Lily contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which are the main toxic compound responsible for its toxicity to cats. This plant is commonly found in gardens, bouquets, and as potted plants in homes.

Assessing the Toxicity Level of the Solomon’s Lily Plant

(Level 4) - Highly Toxic

Don’t delay visiting the vet if poisoning is suspected, or contact the APCC 24-Hour Emergency Poison Hotline for guidance.

  • Level 1 - Minimally Toxic

    Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.

  • Level 2 - Mildly Toxic

    Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.

  • Level 3 - Moderately Toxic

    Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.

  • Level 4 - Highly Toxic

    Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.

  • Level 5 - Extremely Toxic

    All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.

** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.

Signs of illness in your cat

If a cat has ingested any part of a Solomon’s Lily plant, they may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Oral irritation and swelling
  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain

In severe cases, ingestion can lead to difficulty breathingseizures, and even death. If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of this plant, seek veterinary care immediately.

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Potential diagnosis your Vet may give

If you bring your cat to the veterinarian suspecting Solomon’s Lily poisoning, they will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your pet:

  1. Perform a thorough physical examination
  2. Ask about your cat’s symptoms and possible exposure to the plant
  3. Run blood tests to assess organ function and check for electrolyte imbalances
  4. Provide supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and pain management
  5. Administer medication to control vomiting and protect the digestive tract
  6. Monitor your cat closely and provide ongoing care as needed

For more information on how veterinarians diagnose and treat plant poisoning in cats, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!

Plant Toxicity and Cats: Common Questions Answered on Solomon’s Lily Plant

Q: Is Solomon’s Lily toxic to cats?

A: Yes, Solomon’s Lily is toxic to cats. It contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause painful reactions like vomiting and difficulty swallowing if ingested.

Q: What happens if a cat eats Solomon’s Lily?

A: If a cat eats Solomon’s Lily, it may experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and oral irritation. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to prevent further complications.

Q: Are all parts of Solomon’s Lily toxic to cats?

A: Yes, all parts of the Solomon’s Lily plant, including the leaves and stems, are toxic to cats. These parts contain harmful compounds that can cause serious health issues.

Q: How much Solomon’s Lily is harmful to cats?

A: Even small amounts of Solomon’s Lily can be harmful to cats. Ingesting any part of the plant can result in toxic reactions, so it’s essential to keep it out of reach of pets.

Q: Can Solomon’s Lily poisoning in cats be fatal?

A: Solomon’s Lily poisoning is rarely fatal but can cause significant discomfort and health problems in cats. Quick treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms and ensure recovery.

Q: What should I do if my cat ingests Solomon’s Lily?

A: If your cat ingests Solomon’s Lily, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can reduce the toxic effects and protect your cat’s health.

Solomon’s Lily Plant: A Look Through Time

Solomon’s Lily, or Arum Lily, is native to southern Africa and has been cultivated for centuries as an ornamental plant. It was named after the biblical King Solomon, possibly due to its elegant and regal appearance.

The plant gained popularity in Victorian England as a symbol of purity and was often featured in wedding bouquets. Today, Solomon’s Lily is widely grown in gardens and as a potted plant worldwide, despite its toxicity to pets and humans.

Further reading and sources

Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.

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