Cats
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.
cat safety reference
Is Yellow Oleander safe for cats?
Thevetia peruviana
Yellow Oleander is a highly toxic evergreen shrub known for its bright, trumpet-shaped yellow flowers and narrow, leathery leaves. All parts of this plant contain potent cardiac glycosides that are dangerous if ingested by pets.
Be-still TreeCascabela thevetiaLucky NutThevetia peruvianaYellow Oleander
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Evergreen shrub or small tree
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are at serious risk from yellow oleander — every part of the plant contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides that disrupt the heart's electrical activity. Cats are typically more sensitive than dogs to cardiac glycosides, so even a few chewed leaves should be treated as a medical emergency.
What to watch for
Watch first for drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cardiac signs follow: a slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat, weakness, cold extremities, dilated pupils, tremors, and in severe cases collapse. Hyperkalemia (high potassium from the glycoside effect on cardiac cells) can show up as profound weakness.
Time window
Cardiac signs can appear within minutes to a few hours of ingestion and may continue for 24+ hours; cardiac glycoside intoxications can be fatal without aggressive intervention. Exact onset and duration are not well documented for cats specifically.
When to call the vet
Call immediately. Any suspected ingestion of yellow oleander by a cat is a same-hour emergency — drive to a vet or emergency clinic and call the ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) on the way. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
First aid at home
Remove any remaining plant material from your cat's mouth and surroundings and bring a sample (or a clear photo) to the clinic for identification. Do not induce vomiting and do not give activated charcoal at home — call ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) and follow their instructions while you transport your cat.
Sources: ASPCA, NC State Extension.
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, abnormal heart rate, tremors, and potential collapse.
Escalation note
This plant is considered highly toxic. Ingestion of even small amounts can lead to severe cardiac distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Thevetia peruviana is a poisonous plant that should be kept away from pets and children.
Same cat verdict
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