Garden
Is Oleander toxic to cats and dogs?
Nerium oleander · also called Rose bay
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicOleander contains heart toxins similar to the drug digoxin. Small amounts of any part — including dried leaves — can cause fatal heart problems.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- This is an emergency.
- Go to your vet now.
- 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
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Weakness
- Collapse
What is harmful
- Parts
- Every part
- Substance
- Cardiac glycosides (oleandrin)
Pet-safe alternatives
- Camellia
- Hibiscus (Rose of Sharon)
- Magnolia bush
Questions owners ask
Is Oleander toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: every part.
Is Oleander toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: every part.
What happens if a pet eats oleander?
vomiting and drooling, abnormal heart rhythm, weakness, collapse.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
This is an emergency. Go to your vet now. 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 oleander?
Camellia, Hibiscus (Rose of Sharon), Magnolia bush.
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
