I'm really freaking out right now and could use some advice. My sweet cat, Muffin, who’s usually a happy little furball, has suddenly become really lethargic and isn't eating. I found some chewed-up Asiatic lily petals near her favorite window spot, and now I'm terrified because I read that lilies are super toxic to cats. We have a neighbor who’s been weird about Muffin being in their garden before, and now I’m paranoid thinking they might have done something on purpose. Is it even likely someone would do that? I’m heading to the vet as soon as I post this, but has anyone else been in a similar situation? How did you handle it, and what should I expect? I feel so helpless right now.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. I'm sorry to hear you're worried about your cat's safety. Asiatic lilies can indeed be highly toxic to cats, and it's crucial to address this immediately if you suspect exposure. Cats, even ingesting a small amount of any part of the lily plant, can suffer from kidney failure.
Common signs that your cat may have been poisoned by lilies include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, or changes in urination habits. It's important to note that these symptoms can appear within a few hours or could take a day or so to become obvious.
In terms of at-home care, the situation can be very serious, so I recommend not wasting time and seeking veterinary help immediately. In the meantime, try to remove any plant material from their mouth or fur and save the plant for identification. Ensure they have access to fresh water but do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Watch for any worsening signs such as continuous vomiting, disorientation, or seizures, which require urgent medical intervention. Because of the serious nature of lily poisoning, I strongly encourage you to arrange a video consult with us on Dial A Vet as soon as possible to discuss the next steps for your cat's health.
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