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Is Azalea & Rhododendron toxic to dogs and cats?

Rhododendron spp. · Ericaceae

Yes — Azalea & Rhododendron is toxic to pets (high). Dogs, cats, rabbits and grazing animals

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Is Azalea & Rhododendron toxic to cats?Is Azalea & Rhododendron toxic to dogs?
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Why it is toxic

Grayanotoxins, which hold sodium channels open in nerve and heart muscle

How fast symptoms appear: 30 minutes to a few hours

Symptoms of poisoning
  • Drooling
  • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Weakness
  • Slow heart rate
  • Low blood pressure
  • Coma in severe cases
What to do first
  1. Call the vet the same day — a few leaves matter in a small dog, cat or rabbit.
  2. Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth.
  3. Keep your pet warm; blood pressure drops.
(888) 426-4435ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (855) 764-7661Pet Poison Helpline
What your vet will do
Emesis and activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, atropine for a slow heart rate, and cardiac monitoring. Most pets recover fully with prompt care.

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Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant list; Merck Veterinary Manual, Toxicology. PetPlantGuard is complementary to veterinary care and never replaces your vet.