Is Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White' toxic to cats?

Yes — rhododendron 'cunningham's white' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (Rhododendron spp.). All parts contain grayanotoxins, which disrupt nerve and muscle sodium channels and cardiac function. Ingestion may cause hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, depression and, in severe cases, collapse, coma, or death.

ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (Rhododendron spp.). All parts contain grayanotoxins, which disrupt nerve and muscle sodium channels and cardiac function. Ingestion may cause hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, depression and, in severe cases, collapse, coma, or death. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to rhododendron 'cunningham's white'.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full rhododendron 'cunningham's white' pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.