Azaleas

Severity scale:
Caution
This toxin is considered to be a moderate risk. However, your pet's medical history, age, weight, and breed could put him/her at higher risk. It is advised that you contact whiskerDocs or your primary veterinarian for further guidance about any steps you may need to take to ensure your pet's safety. If you choose to, you may monitor your pet closely, but the onset or worsening of any of the below symptoms warrants a trip to the emergency room.

We may all love the beautiful flowers azaleas and rhododendrons produce, but these pretty little plants can cause havoc for our furry friends. Not only are there thousands of species of these plants, but every part including the nectar is poisonous to dogs and cats. The toxicity of these plants  affects the stomach, intestines, heart, and brain. The main toxin is the grayanotoxin which causes problems with the muscle of the heart. Signs often noted include vomiting, diarrhea (both watery and/or bloody), drooling, abnormal heart rate and rhythm, weakness, tremors, depression, blindness,  difficulty breathing, howling, seizures, and coma. Signs can be seen within 1-12 hours, therefore contacting your veterinarian as soon as possible is highly recommended.

Toxic to: 
Dogs and Cats
Part of plant: 
All
Symptoms: 
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, abnormal heart rate and rhythm, weakness, tremors, depression, blindness, seizures, and coma.
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