If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).
Why
Azaleas and rhododendrons belong to the same plant group and contain grayanotoxins. These substances disrupt the normal function of nerves and muscles, including the heart.
Eating even a few leaves can cause problems, and larger amounts can be life-threatening.
How to recognize it
Shrubs with oval leaves and clusters of funnel-shaped flowers in pink, red, purple, white or orange, usually flowering in spring. Rhododendrons are generally larger with bigger, leathery leaves, and azaleas are also sold as potted flowering gifts.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling, vomiting and diarrhea
- Weakness and lethargy
- Loss of coordination
- Abnormal heart rate or low blood pressure
- Tremors, seizures or collapse in severe cases
What to do
- Contact a veterinarian promptly if your pet eats azalea or rhododendron.
- Fence off shrubs in the garden if your dog likes to chew plants.
- Keep potted azaleas out of reach of cats, which may nibble indoor plants.
Pet-safe alternatives
Looking for something similar without the risk? These plants are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Related plants
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.