Water Hemlock

Water Hemlock

Cicuta maculata
Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

Veterinary emergency. Considered the most toxic plant in North America. Seizures can begin within minutes.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Cowbane, Poison Parsnip, Cicuta

Apiaceae

wild

Highly Toxic — Emergency Risk

Toxicity Details

all parts, roots, stems

Cicutoxin

15 to 90 minutes

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Violent seizures
  • Excessive salivation
  • Tremors
  • Respiratory failure
  • Sudden death

What to Do

Veterinary emergency. Considered the most toxic plant in North America. Seizures can begin within minutes.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Water Hemlock

Water Hemlock is widely regarded as the most violently toxic plant in North America. A single bite of the root can kill a large dog within hours.