Cats
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Canna Lily safe for cats?
Canna generalis
Also known as Canna indica
Canna Lily is a popular tropical perennial known for its vibrant, large flowers and bold foliage. It is considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
CannaCanna generalisCanna indicaIndian Shot
- Light
- Full Sun
- Habit
- Upright
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Despite the common name, Canna Lily is not a true lily — it's in the Cannaceae family, not Liliaceae — which matters for cats because true lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) cause life-threatening kidney failure in cats. ASPCA lists Canna generalis itself as non-toxic to cats, but always confirm the genus before assuming any "lily" is safe.
Sources: ASPCA.
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Generally none; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic, but if your cat consumes a significant amount and shows persistent gastrointestinal distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Canna Lilyis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Canna Lily is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Canna generalis is a rhizomatous perennial that is widely grown for its ornamental foliage and flowers.
Questions about Canna Lily
Is Canna Lily toxic to cats?
No, Canna Lily (Canna generalis) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is not the same as true lilies (Lilium or Hemerocallis species), which are extremely dangerous to cats — so the 'lily' in the name can be misleading.
What happens if my cat eats a Canna Lily?
Because Canna Lily is non-toxic, most cats will have no reaction at all. Ingestion of large amounts of the fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, but serious illness is not expected.
Should I call my vet if my cat ate part of a Canna Lily?
A small nibble is unlikely to require veterinary attention. If your cat ate a significant amount and is showing persistent vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian — not because the plant is toxic, but because large amounts of fibrous material can cause prolonged GI upset.
Can people confuse Canna Lily with toxic lilies that harm cats?
Yes — the word 'lily' in the name causes understandable alarm, but Canna generalis is botanically unrelated to the true lilies (Lilium spp.) and daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) that can cause acute kidney failure in cats. If you are unsure which plant your cat ate, verify the species before assuming it is safe.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a popular culinary herb known for its aromatic leaves and ease of growth in sunny indoor or outdoor environments. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Carrot
Daucus carota var. sativa
The carrot is a popular root vegetable often grown in home gardens, known for its edible taproot and feathery foliage. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Celosia
Celosia plumosa
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Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Celosia Spicata
Celosia spicata
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Generally safe for cats & dogs.