Black Laurel

Black laurel (leucothoe) is an evergreen shrub in the rhododendron family, and the whole plant — leaves, flowers, and nectar — contains the cardiac toxin grayanotoxin. Even a small amount can start vomiting, drooling, and low blood pressure, progressing to arrhythmia and coma, so keep it out of any space you share with a cat.

Rhododendron-family plants with the same poison

Leucothoe's grayanotoxin is identical to the toxin in azaleas and rhododendrons, mountain laurel (Kalmia), and fetterbush. They look different, but the mechanism is the same — every shrub in this family is dangerous, whatever the type.

How cats get exposed

It's used as a glossy-leaved ornamental shrub in gardens and landscaping, and its cut, dried branches sometimes come indoors as floral material. Chewing the leaves is the most common route, and dried leaves keep their toxicity, so don't leave pruning clippings on the floor. If it's in the garden, keep it away from your cat's paths.

How symptoms progress

Signs usually begin within 2–6 hours with vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. Grayanotoxin acts on the heart and nerves, dropping blood pressure and slowing or destabilizing the heartbeat, progressing in severe cases to arrhythmia, reduced consciousness, and coma. Cardiac effects can appear late, so don't relax over mild early signs.

What to do right now

If there's any sign your cat chewed or swallowed it, go to a 24-hour emergency vet immediately even if symptoms look mild. Don't force vomiting at home; note the part and amount eaten and bring the remaining plant to help manage the heart and blood pressure.