Nuts & Seeds Toxicity Guide for Dogs and Cats

Contain gallotannins causing severe GI upset, kidney damage, and liver failure. Oak leaves also toxic.

Contain cyanogenic glycosides. Unlike sweet almonds, bitter almonds are toxic raw. Can release cyanide.

Contain juglone and tremorgenic mycotoxins from mold. Cause severe neurological symptoms including seizures.

Contain saponins and phorbol esters. Very toxic. Cause severe GI distress and possible organ damage.

Contain meliatoxins. Seeds are the most toxic part. Resemble edible berries - dangerous.

Contain ginkgotoxin (MPN) which causes seizures. Seeds more toxic than leaves. Also contains urushiol.

Contain saponins and fagin (trimethylamine). Large amounts cause neurological symptoms and GI issues.

High selenium which can be toxic in large amounts.

Contain juglone and tremorgenic mycotoxins. Also large size poses choking/obstruction hazard.

Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs. The exact mechanism is unknown, but they cause neurological and muscular issues.

Contain juglone and can grow mold producing mycotoxins.

Poppy seeds contain opiates that can cause nervous system depression.

Walnuts, especially moldy ones, can contain tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause seizures.

Almonds are not toxic but can pose choking hazards and cause digestive issues.

Small amounts generally safe. Can cause excitement/hyperactivity similar to catnip in some dogs. Large amounts cause GI upset.

Safer than many nuts but high fat. Unsalted only.

Small amounts in seasoning safe. Large amounts can be diuretic and cause photosensitivity.

Not toxic but high carbs. Can cause digestive upset.

Not toxic but high fat and choking hazard.

Small culinary amounts generally safe. Large amounts or concentrated mustard can cause GI irritation.

Generally safe like almonds. Very high in fat - can cause pancreatitis.

Pine nuts are not toxic but high in fat. Can cause digestive upset.

Not toxic but high fat. Shells choking hazard.

Actually a tuber, not a true nut. Very high in fiber. Safe but can cause digestive upset if too many.

Safe gluten-free pseudograin. Complete protein. Rich in minerals.

Safe in small amounts. Can help with digestion and gas. Mild flavor.

Nutrient-dense. Pre-soak before feeding.

Safe in small culinary amounts. Ground seed is safer than whole seeds which are choking hazard.

Ground only. Whole pass through undigested.

Ground flaxseed safe and beneficial. Rich in omega-3 and fiber. Must be ground - whole seeds pass undigested.

Hemp seeds are safe and highly nutritious. Rich in omega fatty acids.

Safe and nutritious. Low in calories and fat. Good source of protein and minerals. Popular in Asian cuisine.

Safe and nutritious. Natural dewormer.

Sesame seeds are generally safe for dogs and cats in very small amounts, but they are high in fat and can upset the stomach if overfed.

Shelled unsalted are safe in moderation.