Is Lily of the Valley Toxic to Cats and Dogs? (Convallaria majalis)

Lily of the Valley, Convallaria majalis: listed as toxic to cats and dogs (cardenolides (convallarin, and others)). Signs, what to do, and how to confirm the species.

This page reports what veterinary poison-control references say about each plant. It is not a promise that a plant is harmless, and it is not treatment advice. If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661.

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At a glance

Scientific name: Convallaria majalis
Also called:
Toxic to cats: Yes
Toxic to dogs: Yes
Toxic principle: Cardenolides (convallarin, and others)
Signs reported: Vomiting, irregular heart beat, low blood pressure, disorientation, coma, seizures

Is Lily of the Valley toxic to cats and dogs?

ASPCA Animal Poison Control lists Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is Cardenolides (convallarin, and others). Signs reported: Vomiting, irregular heart beat, low blood pressure, disorientation, coma, seizures.

How serious it can be

The toxic principle is cardenolides (cardiac glycosides), which can cause irregular heartbeat, coma, and seizures. Note: although this plant has "lily" in the name, it does not belong to the true lily genus Lilium/Hemerocallis — its toxic mechanism is cardiotoxicity, not nephrotoxicity.

What to do if your pet ate it

If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Note what was eaten, how much and when, and bring a photo or a piece of the plant. Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies unless a professional tells you to.

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Confirm it is really this plant

Toxicity lists are by species, and many houseplants look alike. Photograph the whole plant, a leaf close-up and any flower in even light; the app reads the species first, then you can check it here. If the species is uncertain, act as if it were toxic.

FAQ

Is Lily of the Valley safe for cats?

No. It is listed as toxic to cats; reported signs include vomiting.

Is Lily of the Valley safe for dogs?

No. It is listed as toxic to dogs.

My pet only chewed a leaf. Should I still call?

Yes. Amount, size of the animal and the part eaten all matter, and the hotlines are staffed to judge that. Calling early is cheaper than waiting for signs.

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