Yes. Peace lilies are poisonous to cats, but they are usually considered mildly to moderately toxic rather than deadly like “true” lilies.
How they affect cats
Peace lilies contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth, tongue, and throat when chewed. This typically causes intense oral discomfort rather than organ damage such as kidney failure, which is the main danger with true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species).
Common symptoms
Typical signs after a cat chews a peace lily include:
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth, and oral pain.
- Vomiting, decreased appetite, and sometimes difficulty swallowing or mild diarrhea.
In rare cases, swelling of the tongue or upper airway can make breathing difficult, which is an emergency.
What to do if exposed
If a cat chews or eats any part of a peace lily, remove any plant material from the mouth and offer fresh water or a small amount of something bland to rinse the mouth if the cat allows. Then contact a veterinarian or a pet poison helpline promptly for advice, especially if there is vomiting, trouble swallowing, or breathing changes.
Safety tips at home
Because even mild reactions are painful and stressful, keeping peace lilies out of reach or in pet-free rooms is recommended in homes with cats. Consider choosing non-toxic, cat-safe houseplants instead if your cat likes to chew foliage.