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Daylily vs. Peace Lily: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Daylily and Peace Lily are frequently confused because both belong to the same popular lily ambiguity group, leading many shoppers to mistakenly assume they share similar safety profiles. In reality, both plants are potentially toxic to pets, though they pose very different risks. Daylily is exceptionally dangerous to cats, as even small ingestions can lead to life-threatening kidney failure, while its effect on dogs remains largely uncertain. Conversely, Peace Lily contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate, painful oral and gastrointestinal irritation in both cats and dogs. Understanding these distinct toxic mechanisms is essential for keeping your home environment safe for your furry companions.

Daylily — (c) Oleg Kosterin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Oleg Kosterini

Daylily

Hemerocallis spp.

Day lilies are popular garden perennials known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms. While beautiful, they are highly dangerous to cats and should be kept strictly out of reach.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and signs of kidney failure such as increased thirst and urination.

dog

Uncertain

Identity or evidence quality is not strong enough for a firm answer.

Watch for

Mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea may occur if ingested.

Full Daylily reference →
Peace Lily — (c) Dick Culbert, some rights reserved (CC BY)i

Peace Lily

Spathiphyllum

The Mauna Loa Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its elegant white spathes and lush foliage. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Full Peace Lily reference →