Is Karaka nut poisonous to dogs or cats?

Karaka nut

  • Scientific Name: Corynocarpus laevigatus
  • Also Known As: Karaka nut
  • Is It Toxic? Yes
  • Toxins: Prototoxin karakin is hydrolyzed to beta- nitropropionic acid; inhibits succinate dehydrogenase (Krebs cycle); seeds are toxic; ripe fruit (excluding seeds) is edible
  • Symptoms: Convulsions, cardiovascular collapse
  • Toxic Parts:
  • General:

The seeds of the Karaka tree can be highly toxic to dogs and cats. The seeds of this plant are made up of a toxin known as beta- nitropropionic acid. The toxin inhibits succinate dehydrogenase (a reaction in the Krebs cycle) and can cause convulsions and cardiovascular collapse. Even after the seeds have been processed for human food, the fruit can still be harmful to animals. Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately if you suspect that your pet has eaten this plant.

What is Karaka nut?

Karaka is a common name for seed pods from the Coryocarpaceae family. The pods are usually 10-20 cm (4-8 in) wide and contain a large quantity of very small edible seeds. The common names of Karaka include Karaka, karaka nut, and karaka vine.