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
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.
AzaleaRhododendronRhododendron sppRosebay
- Light
- Partial shade to filtered light
- 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
Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, tremors, and potential cardiac arrhythmias.
Escalation note
Ingestion of even a small amount can be life-threatening. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion occurs.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, loss of appetite, weakness, and in severe cases, cardiovascular collapse or seizures.
Escalation note
This plant is considered highly toxic to dogs. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog has chewed or swallowed any part of the plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Azalea contains grayanotoxins which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, and cardiac failure.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Rhododendron species are highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
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.
Desert Bird of Paradise
Caesalpinia gilliesii
Caesalpinia gilliesii, often called the Bird of Paradise shrub, is a flowering plant known for its striking yellow and red blooms. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.