Azalea Toxicity for Animals

Although clusters of red, pink or purple azaleas may brighten your yard, they can pose health risks for your pets and foraging animals. "Azaleas, rhododendrons, and mountain laurel (Kalmia) are mildly toxic when eaten by animals, and may cause abdominal and cardiovascular problems," explains the Azalea Society of America website. Whether you've chosen azaleas to landscape your yard, or see them on a nature hike, keep pets away from the toxic plants.

  1. Toxic Properties of Azaleas

    • Both the green leaves and flower nectar of azaleas can poison animals. If a pet ingests 0.2 percent of their body weight in azaleas leaves, the animal may experience a poisonous reaction, explains the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine. A small dog weighing in at 10 lbs. needs to eat a minuscule 0.32 oz. of leaves to begin experiencing symptoms of azalea poisoning.

    Symptoms of Azaleas Poisoning in Pets

    • After initial contact with the plant, an animal may begin to salivate profusely and experience a burning sensation in the mouth. A loss of vision and muscle weakness will follow. An irregular heart beat, vomiting, depression, anorexia and diarrhea may also indicate ingestion of the azalea plant. If left untreated, the animal may die in one to two days.

    Treatment for Pets Poisoned by Azaleas

    • Seek veterinary care as soon as possible if a pet has eaten any portion of an azalea plant. A veterinarian may initially induce vomiting to detoxify the pet's system. Then, the pet will receive respiratory support and fluid therapy. If you live in a remote area or can't access a veterinary clinic quickly, contact the 24-hour National Animal Poison Control Center.

    Identifying Azalea Plants

    • In addition to the labels rhododendron and azalea, this toxic plant also goes by the names ornamental azalea, desert azalea, desert rose, sabi star, kudu lily or impala lily, advises The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Azaleas commonly grow at elevations above 3,000 feet, as they don't survive in extremely frigid winter weather. The small bushy plants -- a member of the Rhododendron species -- grow wild in the wooded, mountain areas of the southeastern United States, along the Pacific coastline and in western British Columbia, according to the University of Pennsylvania. The colorful plant also finds its way to container gardens, making them a common indoor hazard.