Is Rhododendron and Azalea Toxic to Cats?

Rhododendron species

Rhododendrons and azaleas contain grayanotoxins, which bind to sodium channels and disrupt heart rhythm and nerve signalling. Symptoms can progress quickly, and a cat that chews the flowers or leaves needs veterinary attention.

They are extremely common in British gardens, parks and woodland, particularly in acidic soils in the west and north.

Which parts are dangerous

• leaves
• flowers
• nectar
• honey from the flowers

What to watch for in the UK

• Garden shrubs and woodland both — a cat roaming a rhododendron-heavy garden is exposed.
• Fallen flowers in spring are within easy reach.
• Honey made from rhododendron nectar is a risk for people, not cats, but shows how potent it is.
• Wear gloves and wash hands after pruning.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Phone your vet promptly.
2. Take a photo of the plant and note which part.
3. Watch for drooling, vomiting and wobbliness.

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).