Is Cats Safe?

Is Calla Lily Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Calla Lily is toxic to cats.

Calla Lily
Photo: Eric Hunt · CC BY-SA 2.5 · via Wikimedia Commons

Calla Lily is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Calla Lily away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.

Scientific nameZantedeschia aethiopica
FamilyAraceae
CategoryPlants
Toxic principleInsoluble calcium oxalates
Also known asArum Lily, Florist's Calla, Garden Calla, Pig Lily, Trumpet Lily, White Arum

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Calla Lily:

  1. Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
  2. Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
  3. Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.

Other Araceae plants

Plants in the same family (Araceae) are easily confused with Calla Lily — check each one:

Cat-safe alternatives

Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.

Frequently asked questions

Is Calla Lily toxic to cats?

Yes. Calla Lily is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.

What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Calla Lily?

Reported signs include: Oral irritation, Intense burning and irritation of mouth, Tongue and lips, Excessive drooling, Vomiting, Difficulty swallowing.

What makes Calla Lily toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Calla Lily is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Calla Lily is dangerous to cats?

There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.

What should I do if my cat ate Calla Lily?

Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).