Is Oleander Toxic to Cats? Yes, Highly: Emergency Signs

Highly toxic

Yes, oleander is highly toxic to cats

Oleander is one of the most poisonous garden plants. It contains cardiac glycosides that act like a digoxin overdose on the heart. Even small amounts of leaf can be fatal, and drying does not reduce the toxicity.

If your cat ate or touched oleander: go to an emergency vet now or call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Do not wait for symptoms.

Oleander and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Highly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Highly toxic
Scientific name	Nerium oleander
Also called	rose bay
Toxic compound	Cardiac glycosides
Toxic parts	All parts, including dried leaves and water the plant has been in
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Garden plant

Symptoms of oleander poisoning in cats

Vomiting and drooling
Diarrhea
Very slow or irregular heartbeat
Weakness and collapse
Tremors
Death

Why oleander is toxic to cats

Cardiac glycosides work like an overdose of the heart drug digoxin. They block a pump that heart cells need to control their rhythm, which can cause a dangerously slow or irregular heartbeat, high blood potassium and sudden collapse. The toxin is present in every part of the plant and in water the plant has stood in.

What to do if your cat ate oleander

Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your cat seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
Watch for vomiting and drooling, diarrhea, very slow or irregular heartbeat. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.

Treatment and outlook

This is an emergency. Vets decontaminate (vomiting and activated charcoal, often repeated), give IV fluids, monitor the heart with an ECG, and treat arrhythmias. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments are used in severe cases.

How to keep your cat away from oleander

Place oleander on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
In the garden, fence off beds, supervise cats that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.

Pet-safe alternatives to oleander

If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Oleander and cats: FAQ

Is oleander poisonous to cats?

Oleander is highly toxic to cats and can be fatal. If your cat ate any part of this plant, treat it as an emergency.

What part of oleander is toxic to cats?

All parts, including dried leaves and water the plant has been in.

Can cats die from eating oleander?

Yes. Oleander can be fatal to cats, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.

How long after eating oleander will my cat show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Is oleander toxic to dogs too?

Yes, oleander is highly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Is Oleander Toxic to Cats?