Is Hydrangea toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Hydrangea contains hydrangin (cyanogenic glycoside).
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Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a Hydrangea, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Symptoms
In cats and dogs, eating it can cause:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Abdominal pain
Non-toxic plants for similar light
Money treePachira aquaticaBright, indirect lightPet-safe
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Round-leaf calatheaCalathea orbifoliaBright, indirect lightPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
The ASPCA’s hydrangea record names another species, Hydrangea arborescens. NC State Extension lists Hydrangea macrophylla as a problem for cats and dogs and names cyanogenic glycosides as its toxic substance. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
All Hydrangea guides
Related plants
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