Pet Toxicity Directory
Nuts & Seeds Toxicity Guide for Dogs and Cats
Compare safe treats with toxic or high-fat nut and seed risks. Browse 38 items with safety status, symptoms to watch for, and emergency guidance.
Acorns
DangerContain gallotannins causing severe GI upset, kidney damage, and liver failure. Oak leaves also toxic.
View detailsBitter Almonds
DangerContain cyanogenic glycosides. Unlike sweet almonds, bitter almonds are toxic raw. Can release cyanide.
View detailsBlack Walnuts
DangerContain juglone and tremorgenic mycotoxins from mold. Cause severe neurological symptoms including seizures.
View detailsCandlenuts
DangerContain saponins and phorbol esters. Very toxic. Cause severe GI distress and possible organ damage.
View detailsChinaberry Seeds
DangerContain meliatoxins. Seeds are the most toxic part. Resemble edible berries - dangerous.
View detailsGinkgo Nuts
DangerContain ginkgotoxin (MPN) which causes seizures. Seeds more toxic than leaves. Also contains urushiol.
View detailsBeechnuts
ToxicContain saponins and fagin (trimethylamine). Large amounts cause neurological symptoms and GI issues.
View detailsBrazil Nuts
ToxicHigh selenium which can be toxic in large amounts.
View detailsHickory Nuts
ToxicContain juglone and tremorgenic mycotoxins. Also large size poses choking/obstruction hazard.
View detailsMacadamia Nuts
ToxicMacadamia nuts are toxic to dogs. The exact mechanism is unknown, but they cause neurological and muscular issues.
View detailsPecans
ToxicContain juglone and can grow mold producing mycotoxins.
View detailsPoppy Seeds
ToxicPoppy seeds contain opiates that can cause nervous system depression.
View detailsWalnuts
ToxicWalnuts, especially moldy ones, can contain tremorgenic mycotoxins that cause seizures.
View detailsAlmonds
CautionAlmonds are not toxic but can pose choking hazards and cause digestive issues.
View detailsAnise Seeds
CautionSmall amounts generally safe. Can cause excitement/hyperactivity similar to catnip in some dogs. Large amounts cause GI upset.
View detailsCashews
CautionSafer than many nuts but high fat. Unsalted only.
View detailsCelery Seeds
CautionSmall amounts in seasoning safe. Large amounts can be diuretic and cause photosensitivity.
View detailsChestnuts (Roasted)
CautionNot toxic but high carbs. Can cause digestive upset.
View detailsHazelnuts
CautionNot toxic but high fat and choking hazard.
View detailsMaple Syrup
CautionPure maple syrup not toxic but very high sugar. Artificial may contain xylitol.
View detailsMustard Seeds
CautionSmall culinary amounts generally safe. Large amounts or concentrated mustard can cause GI irritation.
View detailsPili Nuts
CautionGenerally safe like almonds. Very high in fat - can cause pancreatitis.
View detailsPine Nuts
CautionPine nuts are not toxic but high in fat. Can cause digestive upset.
View detailsPistachios
CautionNot toxic but high fat. Shells choking hazard.
View detailsTiger Nuts
CautionActually a tuber, not a true nut. Very high in fiber. Safe but can cause digestive upset if too many.
View detailsAmaranth
SafeSafe gluten-free pseudograin. Complete protein. Rich in minerals.
View detailsCaraway (as seed)
SafeSafe in small amounts. Can help with digestion and gas. Mild flavor.
View detailsChia Seeds
SafeNutrient-dense. Pre-soak before feeding.
View detailsCoconut (meat)
SafeCoconut meat safe in small amounts. Contains MCTs. Avoid coconut water and oil in large amounts.
View detailsCoriander Seeds
SafeSafe in small culinary amounts. Ground seed is safer than whole seeds which are choking hazard.
View detailsFlax Seeds (Ground)
SafeGround only. Whole pass through undigested.
View detailsFlaxseed/Linseed
SafeGround flaxseed safe and beneficial. Rich in omega-3 and fiber. Must be ground - whole seeds pass undigested.
View detailsHemp Seeds
SafeHemp seeds are safe and highly nutritious. Rich in omega fatty acids.
View detailsLotus Seeds
SafeSafe and nutritious. Low in calories and fat. Good source of protein and minerals. Popular in Asian cuisine.
View detailsPumpkin Seeds
SafeSafe and nutritious. Natural dewormer.
View detailsQuinoa
SafeSafe and nutritious. Complete protein pseudograin. Rinse before cooking to remove saponins.
View detailsSesame Seeds
SafeSafe in small amounts. Rich in minerals but high in fat.
View detailsSunflower Seeds
SafeShelled unsalted are safe in moderation.
View details