About Giant Hogweed toxicity

Giant Hogweed (Heracleum maximum) is marked as potentially toxic to cats, dogs, horses in the Plants4Pets database. Keep this plant out of reach of curious pets and read the species-specific notes below.

Is Giant Hogweed toxic to cats, dogs or horses?

Community confirmations show that other users find this rating helpful. They are not verified by our team.

Giant Hogweed plant details and common names

Family: Apiaceae

Also known as: Cow Parsnip

Safety advice if a pet eats Giant Hogweed

Many popular houseplants and garden species can cause vomiting, drooling, skin irritation or more serious symptoms when chewed by cats, dogs or horses. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a veterinary consultation.

If your pet has eaten any part of Giant Hogweed (Heracleum maximum), note the amount ingested, watch for unusual behaviour and contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately.

Found outdated or incorrect data? Use the report form below or e-mail kontakt@plants4pets.pl with the plant name, species affected and your source — we review every submission.

FAQ: Giant Hogweed and pet toxicity

Is Giant Hogweed toxic to cats?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Giant Hogweed is toxic to cats. Photosensitization (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis), ocular toxicity. Toxic principles: Furanocoumarins This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Is Giant Hogweed toxic to dogs?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Giant Hogweed is toxic to dogs. Photosensitization (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis), ocular toxicity. Toxic principles: Furanocoumarins This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Is Giant Hogweed toxic to horses?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Giant Hogweed is toxic to horses. Photosensitization (ulcerative and exudative dermatitis), ocular toxicity. Toxic principles: Furanocoumarins This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Which pets are most at risk from Giant Hogweed?
Our database flags Giant Hogweed as toxic to: cats, dogs, horses.
What should I do if my pet eats Giant Hogweed?
Remove remaining plant material, do not induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you to, and seek professional help immediately with the plant name ready.

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Heracleum maximum / Giant Hogweed

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