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
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.
BitternutCarya cordiformisSwamp Hickory
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Deciduous 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; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, please contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, please contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Bitternut 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
The Bitternut is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Carya cordiformis is a native deciduous tree in the Juglandaceae family.
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
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
African Violet
Saintpaulia spp.
African Violets are popular, low-growing flowering houseplants known for their fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms. They are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
The spider plant is a popular, easy-to-care-for houseplant known for its arching, grass-like foliage and trailing plantlets. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of fibrous material may occasionally cause mild digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Acorn Squash
Cucurbita pepo
Acorn squash is a popular edible winter squash known for its ribbed, dark green skin and sweet, yellow-orange flesh. It is widely cultivated for culinary use and is considered safe for household pets.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.