Garden
Is Azalea toxic to cats and dogs?
Rhododendron species · also called Rhododendron
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicAzaleas and rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins that affect the heart and nerves. A few leaves can cause serious signs in a small pet.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed.
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and drooling
- Weakness
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Tremors
- Collapse
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves, flowers and nectar
- Substance
- Grayanotoxins
Pet-safe alternatives
- Camellia
- Hibiscus
- Roses
Questions owners ask
Is Azalea toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves, flowers and nectar.
Is Azalea toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves, flowers and nectar.
What happens if a pet eats azalea?
vomiting and drooling, weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat, tremors, collapse.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed. Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
What are pet-safe alternatives to azalea?
Camellia, Hibiscus, Roses.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
