Beech Trees

Beech Trees

Plants

Scientific name

Actaea spicata

Alternate names

Beechnut, Fagus grandiflora, Fagus sylvatica

Toxicity to pets

This plant contains saponins and polyphenolic compounds. Fagus grandiflora, a species native to North America, is much less toxic than the European variety, Fagus sylvatica. The nuts contain the highest concentration of the toxin. Small animals typically will have GI upset but severe toxicity is not expected. In grazing animals such as cattle and horses, more severe toxicity can be seen. Clinical signs in cattle can include abdominal pain, staggering, paralysis, collapse, and coma. Death can occur due to respiratory paralysis. In horses, clinical signs include rigid leg spasms, convulsions/paddling, colic, hallucinations, dilated pupils, and red gums.

 

Common signs to look for: 

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain
  • incoordination
  • convulsions/spasms
  • collapse
  • paralysis
  • death
Beech Tree

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Dogs

Toxicity Level

Mild

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Cats

Toxicity Level

Mild

Disclaimer

The content of this page is not veterinary advice. A number of factors (amount of substance ingested, size of the animal, allergies, etc.) determine what is toxic to a particular pet. If you think your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, call Pet Poison Helpline or seek immediate veterinary treatment.