Lily Toxicity in Cats Lecture Notes

Vocabulary flashcards covering the clinical timeline, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of lily toxicity (Lilium and Hemerocallis spp.) in cats.

Lily Toxicity Species Specificity

Causes acute kidney injury (AKI) in cats only; it is not toxic to dogs or other species.

True Lilies (Toxic Genera)

Only Lilium and Hemerocallis spp. cause true lily toxicity.

Lily Toxicity (1-3 hours post-ingestion)

Characterized by salivation, anorexia, and vomiting, which can be mild and resolve without treatment.

Lily Toxicity (12-30 hours post-ingestion)

Characterized by polyuria, dehydration, and worsening gastrointestinal (GI) upset.

Lily Toxicity (3-7 days post-ingestion)

Characterized by worsening clinical signs and death from renal failure.

Labwork findings (>18 h post-ingestion)

Azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hyperkalemia.

Creatinine vs. BUN Ratio

In lily toxicity, creatinine is often disproportionately higher compared to BUN.

Urinalysis (UA) Findings

Isosthenuria, epithelial casts, and +/- glucosuria.

Initial Decontamination Treatment

Emesis, removal of any pollen from fur, and a single dose of activated charcoal (AC).

IV Fluid Protocol

Aggressive IV fluid diuresis for at least $48\,h$, or longer if azotemia persists.

Oliguria Treatment

Consider the administration of mannitol or furosemide.

Anuria Treatment

Consider dialysis.

Most Toxic Part of Lily

The flower part is the most toxic; however, even ingesting pollen licked from fur can cause toxicity.

Peak Incidence Times

Increased around Christmas and Easter holidays, and in spring when plants bloom outside.

Prognosis (<18 h)

Fair to good if treatment is initiated within $18\,h$ and before there is evidence of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Prognosis (>18 h with AKI)

The prognosis is poor.