Is Oleander toxic to dogs and cats?

Q: Is Oleander toxic to dogs?

Yes, Oleander is toxic to dogs. SEVERE: cardiac glycosides, all parts including dried leaves. Can be fatal. Emergency vet visit for any ingestion, even a single leaf.

Q: Is Oleander toxic to cats?

Yes, Oleander is toxic to cats. SEVERE: cardiac glycosides, all parts including dried leaves. Can be fatal. Emergency vet visit for any ingestion, even a single leaf.

Q: What is Oleander also called?

Oleander (scientific name Nerium oleander) is also called Adelfa.

DogsTOXIC

CatsTOXIC

How serious is Oleander for pets?

SEVERE Plant Doctor's data flags Oleander as one of its most serious plants for pets. Treat any suspected ingestion as an emergency and call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435.

SEVERE: cardiac glycosides, all parts including dried leaves. Can be fatal. Emergency vet visit for any ingestion, even a single leaf.

Nerium oleander
Also called: Adelfa.

What makes it toxic

Cardiac glycosides.

Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control

Symptoms to watch for

Drooling
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Colic
Depression
Death

Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control

What to do if your pet chewed it

Move the plant out of reach so they cannot take another bite.
If your pet is alert, gently rinse their mouth and offer a little water.
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, swelling, or lethargy.

Pet-safe swaps

The same green look without the toxicity worry. Each of these is non-toxic to both dogs and cats in our data.

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Quick answers about Oleander

Is Oleander toxic to cats?

Yes, Oleander is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.

Is Oleander toxic to dogs?

Yes, Oleander is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.

What is Oleander also called?

Oleander (Nerium oleander) is also called Adelfa.

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Always confirm with a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before assuming safety. This is a household reference, not a substitute for professional guidance in a suspected poisoning.

Last reviewed: October 2026 · Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control.

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