If you want to know once of our fave indoor plants, the peace lily is definitely on the top of that list. BUT, did you know that it is incredibly toxic to dogs and cats? We are not vets, so we aren't going to give you advice on what to do if your dog or cat comes in contact with a peace lily, but we are plant people, and we can tell you the science behind why peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are toxic to your animals. 

Generally, peace lilies become a danger if your dog or cat bites, chews or starts licking the leaves and stems, so it's very important to keep your peace lily (and most houseplants) out of the reach of dogs and cats. 

If you're looking to know the plants that ARE safe for animals, take a peek at our top 4 pet friendly houseplants.

This Is Why Your Peace Lily Is Toxic To Pets: Calcium Oxalate Crystals

The toxicity of these beautiful plants comes down to something you likely wouldn't have hear before; calcium oxalate crystals.

 

What Are Calcium Oxalate Crystals And Where Are They Found? 

Calcium Oxalate Crystals are so small you can't see them. They are little microscopic crystals that are shaped like needles. If you were to zoom into your peace lily with a microscope, you'd see them in the stems and leaves. 

What happens when a cat or dog chews a peace lily? 

When your pet accidentally munches on the leaf or stem of a peace lily, these tiny needle like crystals are released. It creates a heavy burning sensation in the mouth, tongue and throat. Think about when you're eating something spicy, only worse. The plant does this as a natural defence mechanism. In the wild, they need to deter animals from eating them. 

How Do I know if my dog or cat has been poisoned by a Peace Lily?

Remember, we are not vets, but we did speak to some of our close vet contacts, who gave us some helpful hints. Take a look out for these signs of ingestion, and of course, monitor the plant closely. It's important to note that even if you suspect that your dog or cat has ingested a part of a peace lily, you should take them to the vet. 

• Your pet will start drooling to flush out the irritation. If there's slobber galore, it could be a sign. 
• That burning sensation might make your pet paw at its mouth. 
• The calcium oxalate crystals can move down into the throat, so your pet might have trouble swallowing. 
• Some dogs and cats will start vomiting; it's the body's way of trying to expel the toxins.
• Don't be surprised if your pet stops eating

In some of the most scary scenarios, your pet might have trouble breathing. As we said, the sooner you can get them to the vet, the better!

Why Are Peace Lilies So Popular If They’re Toxic?

Putting aside that peace lilies are toxic to pets, there's alot to love about peace lilies! They have stunning leaves, beautiful flowers and are fairly low maintenance. If you want to grow a peace lily, check out our guide. But, many people don't even think about the risk that common houseplants like this can pose to their dog or cat. It's always good to do your research or ask a friendly associate at a local garden centre about whether your desired houseplant is safe for your dog or cat.