§ Toxic plants · Polygonaceae · Checked Oct 2026
Is docks toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Docks (Rumex spp.) is toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Plant Smart rates its effects Critical, level 4 of 4.
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§ 010 · Signs
What to watch for
Signs include kidney failure, tremors, drooling, weakness, dullness or depression, lying down and unable to get up and coma. Signs can start within hours; some take a day or more to show.
§ 020 · If it happened
What to do if your pet ate it
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline straight away, even if your pet seems fine: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours and charge a fee. Have the plant or a photo of it to hand, and don’t make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
§ 030 · Same family
Other Polygonaceae plants toxic to pets
Docks belongs to the Polygonaceae family. ASPCA lists these relatives too.
§ 040 · Questions
Questions about docks and pets
Is docks toxic to cats?
Yes. ASPCA lists docks as toxic to cats.
Is docks toxic to dogs?
Yes. ASPCA lists docks as toxic to dogs.
What happens if my pet eats docks?
Signs include kidney failure, tremors, drooling, weakness, dullness or depression, lying down and unable to get up and coma. Plant Smart rates it Critical, level 4 of 4.
What should I do if my pet ate it?
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away, even before signs appear: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Both charge a fee. Have the plant, or a photo of it, to hand.