Is Cowbane Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Cicuta species
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Cicutoxin |
| Onset of symptoms | Within an hour |
| Indoor / outdoor | outdoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Drooling
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Respiratory failure
Symptoms in cats
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Respiratory failure
Symptoms in horses
- Seizures
- Colic
- Respiratory failure
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What to do
Emergency vet care immediately. Cowbane is another name for Water Hemlock, frequently cited as the most acutely poisonous plant native to North America.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Cowbane is cicutoxin.
What makes this plant different
Cowbane is simply another common name for Water Hemlock — one of the most acutely poisonous plants native to North America, whose root is easily mistaken for edible wild parsnip.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Cicuta species
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Also known as
- Cowbane, Water Hemlock, Poison Parsnip
- Typically found
- outdoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control