⚡ In short
- Lilies are extremely toxic — pollen or vase water can cause kidney failure.
- Paracetamol and other human painkillers can be fatal.
- Never use permethrin dog flea products on cats.
- If exposure is suspected, call your vet without waiting for symptoms.
Toxic plants
| Plant | Risk |
|---|---|
| Lilies (Lilium), daylilies | Extremely toxic; leaves, flowers, pollen and vase water cause kidney failure |
| Sago palm | Especially seeds; liver damage |
| Azalea, rhododendron | Vomiting, drooling, heart rhythm problems |
| Dieffenbachia, monstera, pothos | Mouth and throat irritation, drooling |
| Oleander | Affects the heart; very dangerous |
| Tulip and daffodil bulbs | Vomiting, diarrhoea |
Safer choices: cat grass, catnip, spider plant and orchids are generally considered safe.
Toxic foods
- Onion, garlic, leek — cats are even more sensitive than dogs
- Chocolate, coffee, tea
- Grapes and raisins
- Alcohol and raw yeast dough
- Milk — most adult cats are lactose intolerant
- Raw eggs and raw fish; cooked bones
- Dog food isn't toxic but lacks the taurine cats need
Medicines and chemicals
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen): a single tablet can be fatal.
- Other human painkillers (ibuprofen, aspirin) damage stomach, kidneys and liver.
- Dog flea and tick products containing permethrin cause tremors and seizures in cats — use only products labelled for cats.
- Essential oils: tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint and citrus oils; beware of diffusers.
- Cleaning products, antifreeze, rat poison.
If your cat is poisoned
- Remove your cat and collect the plant or product.
- Note what, how much and when; keep the packaging or a photo.
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline now — with lilies and paracetamol the first hours matter.
- Don't induce vomiting or try home remedies unless told to.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most toxic plant for cats?
Lilies and daylilies are among the most dangerous; even pollen or vase water can cause kidney failure.
Can I give my cat paracetamol?
Absolutely not. Paracetamol is highly toxic to cats; one tablet can be fatal.
Can I use my dog's flea treatment on my cat?
No. Some dog flea products contain permethrin, which seriously poisons cats.