Is indoor azalea toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Indoor azalea contains grayanotoxins.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeIndoor azalea Rhododendron simsii
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of an indoor azalea, 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:
- Drooling and vomiting
- Weakness and ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Low blood pressure and slow heart rate
- Seizures in severe cases
This plant can cause serious poisoning. Contact a vet promptly, even if your pet seems well.
Non-toxic plants for similar light
Christmas cactusSchlumbergera spp.Bright, indirect lightPet-safe
Staghorn fernPlatycerium bifurcatumBright, indirect lightPet-safe
Japanese araliaFatsia japonicaBright, indirect lightPet-safe
Nerve plantFittonia verschaffeltiiBright, indirect lightPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice. ASPCA lists the whole Rhododendron genus, so this applies to every Rhododendron species, including this one.
All indoor azalea guides
Related plants
ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: