Cocks Comb Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 4 min read| 3,190 found this helpful

Amaranthus hypochondriacus is classified as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses per available toxicology data

No significant adverse toxic reactions have been reported from standard incidental exposure to this plant

Consult a medical or veterinary professional only if unusual symptoms occur after very large ingestion

FAQ

Is Cocks Comb toxic to Humans?

No expected toxic effects; mild temporary gastrointestinal discomfort may occur rarely after very large ingestion (Non-toxic)

Is Cocks Comb toxic to Cats?

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure (Non-toxic)

Is Cocks Comb toxic to Dogs?

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure (Non-toxic)

Is Cocks Comb toxic to Horses?

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No expected toxic effects; mild temporary gastrointestinal discomfort may occur rarely after very large ingestion

Cats

Non-toxic

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure

Dogs

Non-toxic

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure

Horses

Non-toxic

No documented toxic symptoms from standard incidental exposure

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo plant parts are known to have toxic effects on humans or common domestic companion and livestock animals

Exposure RoutePotential exposure routes include accidental ingestion, skin contact, and pollen inhalation, none of which carry confirmed toxic risks

Toxic CompoundsNo toxic phytochemicals associated with mammalian toxicity have been identified in this species

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse the mouth thoroughly with clean water if plant material was ingested
• Wipe any residual plant matter off skin or pet fur with a soft damp cloth
• Monitor the exposed individual for 24 hours for any unusual adverse symptoms

Contact Vet Immediately

• If your pet exhibits persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after ingesting large quantities of the plant
• If you suspect the consumed plant material was mixed with other unknown potentially toxic vegetation
• If your animal has known plant allergies and shows signs of an allergic reaction post-exposure

Prevention

• No specific restrictions are required for growing this plant around pets, livestock, or children
• Store large amounts of dried plant material out of reach of curious animals to avoid overconsumption-related digestive upset
• Follow general safety rules and teach children not to consume unknown garden or wild plants

Treatment & Prognosis

• No specific antidote is required as the plant is classified as non-toxic
• Provide supportive care including hydration and rest if mild gastrointestinal discomfort occurs
• Treat any allergic reactions with appropriate antihistamines per guidance from a medical or veterinary professional

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameAmaranthus hypochondriacus

AliasesPile Wort、Lady Bleeding、Red Cocks Comb

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

No organs are at risk of toxic damage from standard exposure to this plant

Mechanism of Action

• No toxic mechanism of action has been documented, as the plant does not contain phytochemicals that cause harm to mammalian biological systems

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats): No known toxic risk from typical consumption; very large quantities may cause minor non-toxic digestive upset

Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs): Safe for consumption in moderation as part of a balanced forage diet

Pet and wild birds: Seeds and foliage are non-toxic and are often included in commercial bird feed mixes

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Common Cockscomb Celosia cristata

Both plants share the characteristic ruffled bright red flower head resembling a rooster's comb; C. cristata has denser, more crested flower heads compared to A. hypochondriacus's slightly spiky inflorescence

Red Amaranth Amaranthus cruentus

Both are Amaranthus genus plants with deep red foliage and flower spikes; A. cruentus is primarily grown as a grain crop, while A. hypochondriacus is most commonly cultivated as an ornamental

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Related Toxic Plants

Redroot Pigweed

Amaranthus retroflexus

Moderate toxicity, can cause nitrate poisoning in ruminant livestock

Halogeton

Halogeton glomeratus

High toxicity, can cause fatal oxalate-related kidney damage in grazing animals

Greasewood

Sarcobatus vermiculatus

High toxicity, triggers acute oxalate poisoning in sheep and cattle

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Data Sources

1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.