Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Spotted Water Hemlock
Cicuta maculata
Cicuta maculata is a highly dangerous perennial plant containing cicutoxin, which acts as a potent neurotoxin. It is considered one of the most poisonous plants in North America and should be strictly avoided in any environment accessible to pets.
Beaver PoisonCicuta maculataMusquash RootSpotted Water Hemlock
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Care
- High (due to extreme toxicity)
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
Excessive salivation, muscle twitching, seizures, respiratory distress, and potential cardiac arrest.
Escalation note
This plant is extremely lethal; ingestion of even a small amount can cause rapid onset of severe neurological symptoms. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, tremors, violent seizures, loss of coordination, and respiratory failure.
Escalation note
The toxins in this plant are fast-acting and life-threatening. Immediate veterinary intervention is required as there is no specific antidote for cicutoxin poisoning.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata) is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of cicutoxin.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Cicuta maculata is a highly toxic native perennial that can be fatal to humans and animals if ingested.
Often compared with
Same safety verdict
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Cow Parsnip
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Dock
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Peony
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The peony is a popular garden perennial known for its large, showy blooms. While prized for its beauty, all parts of the plant contain paeonol, which can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.