Oleander — (c) Santiago Martín-Bravo, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Santiago Martín-Bravo
Photo by (c) Santiago Martín-Bravo, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Santiago Martín-BravoiNaturalistCC BY
Pet safety reference

Oleander

Nerium oleander

Oleander is a highly toxic evergreen shrub known for its showy flowers and extreme sensitivity to ingestion. All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides that can cause severe health complications in pets.

Nerium oleanderOleanderRose Bay
Light
Full sun
Habit
Shrub
Care
Moderate

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Potentially toxic

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

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

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.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rate, tremors, and seizures.

Escalation note

Ingestion is considered life-threatening. Seek immediate veterinary attention if any part of the plant is consumed.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, abdominal pain, drooling, irregular heartbeat, lethargy, and potential collapse.

Escalation note

This plant is extremely dangerous to dogs; even small amounts can be fatal. Contact a veterinarian or emergency animal poison control immediately.

Safer alternatives

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Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Oleander contains cardiac glycosides which are toxic to both cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Nerium oleander is a poisonous plant that should be kept away from pets and children.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Oleanderdogs safety pageMy dog ate Oleander

Same safety verdict

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Same growing conditions

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