Is azalea & rhododendron toxic to dogs or cats?
A few leaves can poison a dog: heart and nervous system effects.
Equally dangerous for cats.
Azaleas and rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins, which disrupt the heart and nerves; eating even a small amount of leaves is enough to cause serious signs. Common in landscaping, so worth knowing what is in the yard. Any ingestion warrants an immediate vet call.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Collapse
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).