Plants · Rhododendron spp.
Is Azalea Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Cats
Can cause weakness and cardiac failure (ASPCA).
Dogs
Can cause weakness and cardiac failure (ASPCA).
Yes, azaleas are toxic to cats and dogs. They contain grayanotoxin, which the ASPCA says can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and cardiac failure. Because the heart can be affected, call your vet or a pet poison line as soon as you know your pet ate azalea.
Written by VetExpenses Editorial TeamFact-checked against cited sources · Veterinary review pendingLast reviewed
Educational information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or ate something worrying, call your veterinarian or a pet poison line now. Emergency steps.
Azalea: plant facts
| Scientific name | Rhododendron spp. |
|---|---|
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Other names | Rhododendron, Rosebay |
| Toxic parts | Leaves and flowers |
| Toxic principle | Grayanotoxin |
| Where you'll find it | outdoor |
Severity scale: “usually mild” means the ASPCA lists only mouth, stomach or skin irritation; “highly toxic” means it lists organ failure, heart effects, seizures or death.
Signs to watch for
Cats
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- weakness
- cardiac failure
Dogs
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- weakness
- cardiac failure
My pet ate azalea. What do I do?
- Take any remaining plant away from your pet and note which plant (photo or label) and how much was chewed.
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison line: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435, Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A fee may apply.
- Don't make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian or poison control tells you to.
What it could cost
If your pet needs care after eating azalea
We publish a price range only after it is checked against named sources — our poisoning treatment and emergency vet visit guide is in verification. A vet bill for this kind of visit is usually built from these line items:
- Exam or emergency consultation fee
- Tests: bloodwork, urine tests or imaging
- Treatment, such as decontamination or medication
- Hospital stay and monitoring, if needed
- Follow-up visits and recheck tests
Pet-safe alternatives
Related plants
Sources
- Azalea — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Accessed November 8, 2026.
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