Azalea

Azalea

Rhododendron spp.
Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

EMERGENCY. Immediate veterinary care. Even small ingestions of 0.2% body weight can be lethal.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Rhododendron, Rosebay

Ericaceae

garden

Highly Toxic — Emergency Risk

Toxicity Details

all parts, especially leaves and nectar

Grayanotoxins

Within 6 hours

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Weakness
  • Cardiac failure
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Death

What to Do

EMERGENCY. Immediate veterinary care. Even small ingestions of 0.2% body weight can be lethal.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Azalea

All Rhododendron species (including Azaleas) are severely toxic to pets. Grayanotoxins affect the heart and nervous system. Just a few leaves can be fatal. These are common garden shrubs, so outdoor pets are at particular risk.

Safe Alternatives

These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets: