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
Water Hemlock
Cicuta species
Cowbane is a highly poisonous genus of plants in the carrot family, known for containing potent neurotoxins that affect the central nervous system. It is considered one of the most lethal plants in North America and should be strictly avoided in any environment accessible to pets.
CicutaCicuta speciesPoison ParsnipWater 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 tremors, seizures, rapid heart rate, and respiratory distress.
Escalation note
Extremely severe; ingestion of even small amounts can be fatal. Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, violent seizures, muscle twitching, dilated pupils, and potential collapse.
Escalation note
Extremely severe; the toxins act rapidly on the nervous system. Contact a veterinarian or emergency animal poison control center immediately.
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 is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs, containing cicutoxin which causes severe neurotoxic effects.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Cicuta maculata is highly poisonous to humans and animals; all parts of the plant are toxic.
Often compared with
Same safety verdict
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Buttercup
Ranunculus spp.
Buttercups are flowering plants known for their bright, cup-shaped blooms, but they contain compounds that can cause irritation if ingested. They are generally considered toxic to household pets due to the presence of protoanemonin.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Cow Parsnip
Heracleum maximum
Cow parsnip is a large, herbaceous perennial member of the carrot family known for its tall stature and umbrella-like flower clusters. It contains furanocoumarins that can cause significant skin and mucosal irritation upon contact.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Dock
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
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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.