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Doghobble vs. Fetterbush: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Doghobble and Fetterbush are frequently confused because both plants share the common-name alias Fetterbush, leading to significant uncertainty for pet owners trying to identify greenery in their landscape. It is important to know that both plants are potentially toxic to pets. Both Doghobble, from the Leucothoe genus, and Fetterbush, from the Lyonia genus, contain grayanotoxins that can cause serious systemic illness if ingested by cats or dogs. Because both plants pose a genuine risk to your animals, it is best to keep them entirely out of reach or avoid planting them in areas where your pets spend time. Please consult your veterinarian if ingestion occurs.

Doghobble — KENPEIi

Doghobble

Leucothoe spp.

Leucothoe is a genus of evergreen shrubs known for their arching branches and drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers. These plants contain grayanotoxins, which are harmful if ingested by household 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, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and potential tremors or cardiac distress.

Full Doghobble reference →
Fetterbush — (c) Bob Peterson, some rights reserved (CC BY)i

Fetterbush

Lyonia spp.

Fetterbush is a genus of evergreen shrubs in the heath family that contains grayanotoxins, which are harmful if ingested by pets. These plants are typically found in woodland or wetland environments and are not commonly kept as indoor houseplants.

cat

Potentially toxic

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

Watch for

Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, weakness, and potential cardiac irregularities.

dog

Potentially toxic

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

Watch for

Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and potential tremors or cardiac distress.

Full Fetterbush reference →