Are horse chestnuts toxic to cats?
Horse chestnuts (buckeyes), the shiny brown nuts from the park, are toxic to cats (ASPCA). They can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and swallowed whole they can block the gut (Pet Poison Helpline).
Good to know: So they don’t make good cat toys.
Did your cat eat some?
Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away, even if your cat seems fine. Tell them what your cat ate, how much and when.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply)
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a fee may apply)
- Don’t make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Better choices, for example
Questions
My cat ate horse chestnuts. What should I do?
Call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away, even if your cat seems fine. You can also call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (a fee may apply). Don’t make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Are horse chestnuts toxic to dogs?
Yes, toxic. Horse chestnuts (buckeyes), the shiny brown nuts from the park, are toxic to dogs (ASPCA). They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, wobbliness and seizures, and swallowed whole they can block the gut (Pet Poison Helpline).
Sources
Last checked: October 2026