Why it is dangerous to cats
Rhododendrons and azaleas contain substances that act on the nervous system, the muscles and the heart. Every part of the plant is dangerous: the leaves, the flowers and the stems.
At first the cat may drool, vomit and have diarrhoea. Later it can become weak and wobbly, its heart rhythm can be upset, and it may collapse. How much of the plant does harm cannot be judged at home.
Rhododendrons grow in gardens, and azaleas are also kept indoors in pots. If your cat may have chewed either plant, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if it seems well. Take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
What to watch out for
- Drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea can follow.
- The cat can become weak and wobbly, and may collapse.
- The heart rhythm can be upset.
- Azaleas sold in pots are as dangerous as rhododendrons growing in the garden.
Which parts are dangerous
Not every part of the plant is equally dangerous.
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Leaves
DangerousEven a small bitten-off piece is dangerous.
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Flowers
DangerousFallen flowers are poisonous too.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
Safe plants instead
Plants that are safer to keep.