Lilies

What are lilies?

Lilies are a plant family comprising over 100 genera and more than 4000 species. They usually grow as bulbs or tubers and have long stems with large flowers. Lilies are found in many parts of the world, especially in Asia, Europe and North America. Some well-known lily species are the daffodil, Madonna lily, tiger lily and calla.

Why are lilies poisonous to dogs?

Lilies contain various substances that can be harmful to dogs. The exact effect depends on the type of lily and the part of the plant that the dog eats. Most lily species are only mildly toxic to dogs and cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as vomiting or diarrhea. However, some lily species are very poisonous and can lead to severe poisoning. These include above all the Lilium and Hemerocallis species, such as the daffodil or the daylily. These lilies can cause kidney failure in dogs if they are eaten even in small quantities. Symptoms of kidney poisoning include loss of appetite, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, blood in the urine or no more urination.

How can I protect my dog from lilies?

If you have a dog, you should take care not to have lilies in your house or garden. If you receive lilies as a gift or want to buy them, find out beforehand about the type of lily and whether it is poisonous to dogs. If you are not sure, it is better to avoid the lily or place it out of your dog's reach. If you take your dog on walks, make sure he doesn't eat any lilies or other plants that could harm him. If you suspect that your dog has eaten a lily, you should see a vet immediately. The quicker treatment is given, the better the chances of recovery.