What the study found

The study, conducted by veterinary toxicologists at the University of Liverpool in collaboration with the Animal Poison Line, reviewed 3,847 confirmed plant toxicity cases involving cats over the five-year period. Key findings:

41%

of serious plant poisoning cases involved true lilies (Lilium / Hemerocallis)

+67%

increase in sago palm (Cycas revoluta) cases 2021–2026, reflecting growing houseplant popularity

78%

of lily toxicity cases with outcomes recorded involved cats that presented within 6 hours

Plants most frequently implicated in serious cases

True lilies — Lilium and Hemerocallis genera Kidney failure

Easter lily, tiger lily, Asiatic lily, stargazer lily, daylily. All parts are toxic including pollen — a cat that brushes against the flower and licks pollen from its fur can ingest a lethal dose. Causes rapid-onset acute kidney failure. Even a brief exposure warrants an emergency vet call.

Sago palm — Cycas revoluta Liver failure

All parts toxic, seeds most concentrated. Causes severe liver failure with high mortality even with treatment. Increasingly available as a decorative houseplant. Fatality rate in the study was 58% in cats where the seed was ingested.

Yew — Taxus species Cardiac arrest

Common UK garden and hedgerow plant. Taxine alkaloids cause rapid cardiac arrest — cats can die within hours of ingestion. Every part of the plant is toxic except the red berry flesh (but not the seed within).

Autumn crocus — Colchicum autumnale Multi-organ failure

Not to be confused with the spring crocus (Crocus species, moderately toxic). Autumn crocus contains colchicine — causes multi-organ failure. Commonly found in UK gardens and sometimes in autumn floral arrangements.

The houseplant market effect

The study authors note that the significant rise in sago palm cases reflects a broader trend: plants with exotic appearances that were previously specialist-only are now sold widely in supermarkets and DIY stores. Many purchasers are unaware of their toxicity to pets.

The research recommends that point-of-sale labelling clearly indicates when a plant poses a significant risk to cats or dogs — a requirement that does not currently exist in UK retail regulation.

What owners can do

The practical takeaway is straightforward: check every plant in your home against a reliable toxic plant reference before acquiring a cat, and again if you add new plants. Our room-by-room cat-proofing checklist includes a toxic plants section. The Cats Protection toxic plants guide is also a reliable free reference.

If you suspect ingestion of any plant, call your vet or the Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) immediately. Do not wait for signs to appear — by the time a cat shows signs of lily toxicity, kidney damage is already underway.