Is Big Shagbark Hickory Toxic to Cats?

As a cat owner, it is important to know what plants and trees are present in your surroundings, as some of them may be toxic to your feline friend. One such plant that raises concerns for its toxicity to cats is the shagbark hickory tree, particularly the big shagbark hickory, which is commonly found in North America.

What is Big Shagbark Hickory?

Big shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) is a large deciduous tree native to North America. It is known for its distinctive shaggy bark that peels off in large strips and its edible hickory nuts, which have been consumed by humans and wildlife for centuries. The tree can reach up to 100 feet in height and its leaves are pinnately compound with 5-7 leaflets per leaf.

Is Big Shagbark Hickory Toxic to Cats?

While big shagbark hickory is not considered highly toxic to cats, it can still pose a risk if ingested in large quantities. The tree contains a compound called juglone, which is found in all parts of the tree, including the leaves, bark, and nuts. Juglone can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can also lead to a condition called hemolytic anemia, which causes the red blood cells to break down and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

What are the Symptoms of Juglone Poisoning in Cats?

The symptoms of juglone poisoning in cats can vary depending on the amount ingested and the size and health of the cat. Some of the common symptoms of juglone poisoning in cats include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes
• Rapid heartbeat
• Weakness
• Seizures

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of a big shagbark hickory tree, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately for advice and treatment.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Big Shagbark Hickory

If you have big shagbark hickory trees present in your yard or surrounding area, there are steps you can take to keep your cat safe:

• Monitor your cat's outdoor activities and prevent them from accessing areas where the trees are present
• Keep your cat indoors or on a leash when walking them outdoors
• Avoid using big shagbark hickory trees as scratching posts or toys for your cat
• Remove any fallen leaves, nuts, or bark from your yard or outdoor space to prevent your cat from ingesting them

Conclusion

While the big shagbark hickory tree is not highly toxic to cats, it can still pose a risk if ingested in large quantities, as it contains the compound juglone, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and hemolytic anemia. As a responsible cat owner, it is important to be aware of the plants and trees present in your surroundings and take precautions to keep your cat safe and healthy.

Sources

• Archer, L., & Fellman, B. (2016). Hemolytic anemia caused by intake of nuts of black walnut (Juglans nigra) or English walnut (Juglans regia) in 4 dogs. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 57(12), 1243-1248. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5127816/
• Barceloux, D. G. (2012). Medical toxicology of natural substances: foods, fungi, medicinal herbs, plants, and venomous animals. John Wiley & Sons.
• Gunkel, C. F. (1981). Toxicity of nut husks in cats—report of four cases. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 179(12), 1299-1301. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7031624/
• Ross, J. A. (2009). Toxic plants of North America. John Wiley & Sons.