Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia
Mountain Laurel is a broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its clusters of showy, cup-shaped flowers. It contains grayanotoxins that are highly dangerous to pets if ingested.
Calico BushKalmia latifoliaLaurelSpoonwood
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, tremors, and potential cardiac arrhythmias.
Escalation note
Ingestion is considered highly dangerous and potentially fatal. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, difficulty breathing, paralysis, and potential heart failure.
Escalation note
This plant is considered highly toxic to dogs. Immediate veterinary intervention is required if any part of the plant is consumed.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Mountain Laurel contains grayanotoxins which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiovascular issues in pets.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Kalmia latifolia is a native evergreen shrub that is highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Often compared with
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Azalea
Rhododendron spp
Azaleas are flowering shrubs in the Rhododendron genus that contain grayanotoxins, which can cause significant illness if ingested by pets. These plants are highly toxic and require immediate veterinary attention if consumption is suspected.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Barbados Pride
Poinciana gilliesii
Barbados Pride is a flowering shrub known for its striking yellow flowers and long red stamens. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Boxwood
Buxus spp.
Boxwood is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging and topiary, containing steroidal alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. It is considered toxic to both cats and dogs.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Castor Bean
Ricinus communis
The African Wonder Tree is a fast-growing ornamental shrub known for its large, palm-like leaves and unique seed pods. It contains ricin, a highly potent toxin found throughout the plant, with the highest concentration in the seeds.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.