Cats
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.
cat safety reference
Is Water Hemlock safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Cats — extremely toxic. ASPCA lists water hemlock (Cicuta) as toxic to cats; the toxin cicutoxin acts directly on the central nervous system, and ingestion of even small amounts can be rapidly fatal. Outdoor cats wandering near marshy ditches, streams, or wet pasture are the rare but very high-risk case.
What to watch for
ASPCA lists diarrhea, seizures, tremors, extreme stomach pain, dilated pupils, fever, bloat, respiratory depression, and death. Drooling and weakness can be the earliest signs.
Time window
Onset can be very rapid; exact dose-to-onset is not in the ASPCA listing for cats.
When to call the vet
Treat any suspected ingestion as an immediate emergency. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) at once — do not wait for symptoms. Severe signs can come on quickly.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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.
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
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
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
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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.
Peony
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.