Is Oleander Toxic to Cats?

Nerium oleander

Oleander contains oleandrin, a cardiac glycoside, in every part of the plant. Dried leaves remain toxic for months, which is why an old cutting in a vase is still dangerous.

In the UK it is a conservatory and patio plant, and it also grows widely around the Mediterranean — a cat in a holiday rental garden is at risk. It is not a plant to keep in a house with a cat.

Which parts are dangerous

• leaves
• flowers
• sap
• vase water
• dried material

What to watch for in the UK

• Sold as a patio and conservatory plant for its flowers.
• Grows commonly in gardens across southern Europe.
• Sap on secateurs or gloves can be transferred to a cat's coat.
• Do not burn or compost prunings where a cat can investigate.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Emergency vet immediately.
2. Take a photo of the plant and any prunings.
3. Do not induce vomiting.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).