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Is Swamp Azalea toxic to cats?

Rhododendron viscosum

Toxic to cats

Yes — swamp azalea is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Rhododendron viscosum is a member of the genus Rhododendron, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain grayanotoxins capable of causing vomiting, drooling, weakness, and cardiovascular effects if ingested.

What to do if your cat ate swamp azalea

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move swamp azalea out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of swamp azalea to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten swamp azalea, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is swamp azalea toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is swamp azalea toxic to cats?

Yes — swamp azalea is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Rhododendron viscosum is a member of the genus Rhododendron, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain grayanotoxins capable of causing vomiting, drooling, weakness, and cardiovascular effects if ingested.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats swamp azalea?

Rhododendron viscosum is a member of the genus Rhododendron, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain grayanotoxins capable of causing vomiting, drooling, weakness, and cardiovascular effects if ingested. 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 swamp azalea.

What should I do if my cat ate swamp azalea?

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.

Is swamp azalea toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Swamp Azalea is toxic to dogs as well. See the full swamp azalea pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to swamp azalea?

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.

Full swamp azalea pet-safety