Is Oleander Toxic to Cats and Dogs? (Nerium oleander)
Oleander, Nerium oleander: listed as toxic to cats and dogs (cardiac glycosides). Signs, what to do, and how to confirm the species.
At a glance
- Scientific name: Nerium oleander
- Also called: Rose-Bay
- Toxic to cats: Yes
- Toxic to dogs: Yes
- Toxic principle: Cardiac glycosides
- Signs reported: Drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, depression, death
Is Oleander toxic to cats and dogs?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control lists Oleander (Nerium oleander) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is Cardiac glycosides. Signs reported: Drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, depression, death.
How serious it can be
The toxic principle is cardiac glycosides, which act directly on the heart; the clinical signs in the original source include "death."
What to do if your pet ate it
If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Note what was eaten, how much and when, and bring a photo or a piece of the plant. Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies unless a professional tells you to.
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Confirm it is really this plant
Toxicity lists are by species, and many houseplants look alike. Photograph the whole plant, a leaf close-up and any flower in even light; the app reads the species first, then you can check it here. If the species is uncertain, act as if it were toxic.
FAQ
Is Oleander safe for cats?
No. It is listed as toxic to cats; reported signs include drooling.
Is Oleander safe for dogs?
No. It is listed as toxic to dogs.
My pet only chewed a leaf. Should I still call?
Yes. Amount, size of the animal and the part eaten all matter, and the hotlines are staffed to judge that. Calling early is cheaper than waiting for signs.
Related
Sources
Updated 2026-09-11.