Cats & Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
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.
Bitter PecanCarya aquaticaSwamp HickoryWater Hickory
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
None expected, though excessive ingestion of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large quantity and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected, though excessive ingestion of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic. If your dog consumes a large quantity and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Bring it home
Water Hickoryis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Bitter Pecan is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Carya aquatica is a deciduous tree in the Juglandaceae family, native to the southeastern United States.
Often compared with
Same genus
More from the Carya genus
Mockernut Hickory
Carya tomentosa
The Mockernut Hickory is a large deciduous tree native to North America, known for its dense wood and edible nuts. It is considered non-toxic to household pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Not yet rated for cats.
Not yet rated for dogs.
Pignut Hickory
Carya glabra
Pignut Hickory is a native North American hardwood tree known for its dense wood and small, pear-shaped nuts. It is generally considered safe for pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Not yet rated for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
American Chestnut
Castanea dentata
The American Chestnut is a deciduous tree known for its historical significance and edible nuts. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Carob
Ceratonia siliqua
Carob is a Mediterranean evergreen tree known for its edible pods, which are commonly used as a chocolate substitute. It is considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Caroba
Jacaranda procera
Caroba is a tropical flowering tree known for its fern-like foliage and clusters of trumpet-shaped purple flowers. It is considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamon is a popular aromatic spice derived from the bark of trees in the Cinnamomum genus. While generally considered safe for pets, large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Black Locust
Robinia spp.
Robinia species, commonly known as locust trees, contain toxic proteins and alkaloids throughout the bark, leaves, and seeds. Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal and neurological distress in pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Buckeye
Aesculus spp
Buckeye trees and shrubs contain toxic glycosides and saponins that affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. All parts of the plant, especially the seeds and leaves, are considered poisonous if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Bullbrier
Smilax rotundifolia
Bullbrier is a hardy, woody vine native to North America, often recognized by its prickly stems and rounded leaves. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Canary Date Palm
Phoenix canariensis
The Canary Date Palm is a popular ornamental palm known for its massive, feathery fronds and sturdy trunk. While it is considered non-toxic to pets, its fibrous foliage can cause mechanical irritation if ingested in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.