Is Mockernut Hickory toxic to cats?

No — mockernut hickory is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. Mockernut hickory belongs to the Carya genus, which the ASPCA lists as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses (with shagbark and other hickories individually confirmed non-toxic), so the tree and foliage are not a poisoning hazard. The thick-shelled nuts are not a safe pet treat, however: they can develop aflatoxin and tremorgenic moulds (causing vomiting, tremors or seizures), the hard shells risk choking or blockage, and the high fat content can cause pancreatitis. Keep fallen nuts away from pets.

Yes — the ASPCA lists mockernut hickory as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Mockernut Hickory is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full mockernut hickory pet-safety guide for both species.

Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.