Mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) is a tree in the walnut family. It is native to eastern North America, where it ranges from Maine and southern Ontario to Alabama and Mississippi. The tree grows up to 30 m (100 ft) tall and 1.5 m (5 ft) in diameter.
The leaves are 20–30 cm (8–12 in) long and 10–15 cm (4–6 in) wide, with seven or nine lobes. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and borne in clusters of three or four; they mature into greenish-yellow fruits 5–10 cm (2–4 in) long that contain two or three seeds each.
The mockernut hickory is one of the most common hickories in its range, especially on dry sites; it is often a dominant tree in the forest canopy.
However, it is not as tolerant of shade as some other hickories, such as the pignut hickory. The wood of the mockernut hickory is hard and heavy, making it valuable for fuelwood and construction purposes; it is also used for smoking meats.
When it comes to your cat’s safety, you can never be too careful. So, is mockernut hickory toxic to cats? The answer is no, mockernut hickory is not toxic to cats.
However, the tree does contain a chemical called juglone which can be harmful to animals if ingested in large quantities. While your cat would have to eat a lot of the bark or leaves of the mockernut hickory tree to experience any adverse effects, it’s still best to err on the side of caution and keep them away from this plant.
Is Mockernut Hickory Toxic to Cats
No, mockernut hickory is not toxic to cats.
What are the Symptoms of Mockernut Hickory Toxicity in Cats
Mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) is a common tree in the eastern United States. The nuts produced by this tree are toxic to cats. Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and weakness.
In severe cases, seizures and death may occur. If you suspect your cat has consumed a mockernut hickory nut, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately.
How Can I Prevent My Cat from Ingesting Mockernut Hickory
If you have a cat that likes to chew on wood, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them from ingesting Mockernut Hickory. The first is to try and find a different type of wood for them to chew on. Some good options include apple or cherry wood, as they are softer and less likely to splinter.
You can also provide them with plenty of toys and chews that are made specifically for cats, so they have something else to focus their attention on. Finally, make sure they always have access to fresh water, as this will help discourage them from chewing on the hickory in the first place.
What Should I Do If My Cat Ingests Mockernut Hickory
If your cat ingests Mockernut Hickory, the first thing you should do is call your veterinarian. Mockernut Hickory can be toxic to cats and may cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and diarrhea. If your cat is showing any of these signs, please bring them in for an examination right away.
Neighborhood Naturalist: Nuts for Squirrels
Conclusion
Mockernut hickory is a tree that is native to the eastern United States. The tree grows up to 60 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of 2-3 feet. The leaves are compound with 5-9 leaflets.
The flowers are yellow-green and borne in clusters. The fruit is a nut enclosed in a hard, brown shell.
Mockernut hickory nuts are not toxic to cats, but the shells can be dangerous if swallowed.
If your cat ingests a mockernut hickory shell, contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately.
