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Water Hickory vs. Bitternut Hickory: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Water Hickory and Bitternut Hickory are frequently confused by gardeners and pet owners alike because both trees share the common-name alias swamp hickory. If you are deciding which of these deciduous trees to bring into your home or garden, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that both are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. While neither plant poses a significant threat to your pets, it is important to remember that the fibrous nature of their leaves and stems can cause minor digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. The following sections detail specific considerations for households with curious cats or dogs.

Water Hickory

Carya aquatica

Carya aquatica is a deciduous tree native to wetlands, known for its bitter, inedible nuts and compound leaves. It is considered non-toxic to household pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.

cat

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Watch for

None expected, though excessive ingestion of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.

dog

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Watch for

None expected, though excessive ingestion of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.

Full Water Hickory reference →

Bitternut Hickory

Carya cordiformis

The Bitternut Hickory is a deciduous tree known for its distinctively bitter nuts and compound leaves. While generally considered safe for pets, the fibrous nature of the plant material can occasionally cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.

cat

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Watch for

None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.

dog

Generally safe

Consulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.

Watch for

None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.

Full Bitternut Hickory reference →