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
Black Hawthorn
Crataegus douglasii
Crataegus douglasii is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its dark, edible berries and thorny branches. It is generally considered safe for household pets, though its physical structure requires caution.
Black HawthornCrataegus douglasiiDouglas Hawthorn
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Shrub or small 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 typically expected from ingestion of plant material.
Escalation note
While non-toxic, consuming large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Contact your veterinarian if you observe persistent vomiting or lethargy.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected from ingestion of plant material.
Escalation note
While non-toxic, consuming large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Contact your veterinarian if you observe persistent vomiting or lethargy.
Bring it home
Black Hawthornis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
Shop on AmazonSome links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
The Black Hawthorn is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Crataegus douglasii is a native shrub or small tree with dark purple to black fruit.
Same genus
More from the Crataegus genus
English Hawthorn
Crataegus laevigata
English Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its clusters of white or pink flowers and red berries. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not intended for consumption.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Hawthorn
Crataegus species
Hawthorn is a genus of shrubs and trees in the rose family, widely recognized for their clusters of small, berry-like fruits known as haws. While generally considered safe for pets, the fibrous nature of the plant material can occasionally cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Amur Maple
Acer ginnala
The Amur Maple is a hardy, deciduous shrub or small tree known for its vibrant autumn foliage and fragrant spring flowers. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause mild digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Black Haw
Viburnum lentago
Black Haw is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its clusters of white flowers and dark, edible berries. It is widely considered safe for household pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Mountain Camellia
Stewartia ovata
Mountain Camellia is a deciduous flowering shrub or small tree known for its beautiful white blossoms and exfoliating bark. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Russian Olive
Elaeagnus angustifolia
Russian Olive is a hardy, deciduous shrub or small tree known for its silvery foliage and fragrant, inconspicuous flowers. While generally considered non-toxic, it is not intended for consumption by pets.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.