PlantLegitIs American elderberry toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
Low risk reported.
- DogsNo ASPCA listing found
- CatsNo ASPCA listing found
- People & kidsLow poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (5)
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to cats – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Sambucus canadensis plant profile, poison fields – NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Poison Help line 1-800-222-1222 – U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
- Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 – ASPCA
Think someone ate part of a plant?
- Person or child: call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 (free, confidential, 24/7; HRSA Poison Help).
- Dog, cat or other pet: call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a consultation fee may apply; ASPCA) or your veterinarian.
- Trouble breathing, seizures or collapse: call 911.
Details
We found no ASPCA entry for Sambucus canadensis. That does not mean it is safe for pets.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, coma. Unripe fruits are much more toxic than fully ripe fruits. Cooking helps inactivate the cyanogenic glycoside.
Poisonous parts: Fruits Leaves Roots Stems.
Toxic compound: Cyanogenic glycoside and alkaloid.
This page summarizes published lists. It is not medical or veterinary advice. Keep plants away from young children and pets, and call the numbers above with any concern. Checked 2026-10-14.