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Dog Hobble vs. Maleberry: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Dog Hobble and Maleberry are frequently confused because both plants share the common-name alias fetterbush. Because they belong to the same botanical family and share similar growth habits, it is easy to mistake one for the other in a garden setting. Both of these shrubs are potentially toxic to pets due to the presence of grayanotoxins in their foliage and flowers. While the specific clinical signs may vary slightly between cats and dogs, ingestion of either plant can lead to serious systemic illness. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of these plants, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for professional guidance.

Dog Hobble

Leucothoe sp.

Dog Hobble is a genus of evergreen shrubs in the heath family known for their arching branches and drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers. The plant contains grayanotoxins, which are harmful if ingested by pets.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potential cardiac irregularities.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential tremors or lethargy.

Full Dog Hobble reference →

Maleberry

Lyonia sp.

Maleberry is a deciduous shrub in the heath family known for its clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers. It contains grayanotoxins, which can cause significant illness if ingested by pets.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potential cardiac arrhythmias.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Excessive salivation, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

Full Maleberry reference →