Grey willow Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 3 min read| 3,781 found this helpful

No confirmed acute toxicity to cats, dogs, or horses is documented for this species

Excessive or chronic intake of any plant part increases bleeding risk for humans and animals

This species is easily confused with other closely related willow (Salix) species

FAQ

Is Grey willow toxic to Humans?

No acute poisoning symptoms reported for low-level exposure; excessive/chronic intake may cause easy bruising or abnormal bleeding (Low)

Is Grey willow toxic to Cats?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is Grey willow toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested (Non-toxic)

Is Grey willow toxic to Horses?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Low

No acute poisoning symptoms reported for low-level exposure; excessive/chronic intake may cause easy bruising or abnormal bleeding

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms documented; monitor for unusual bleeding if large volumes are ingested

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsAll plant parts carry bleeding risk if consumed in excess or chronically; no parts are confirmed acutely toxic at low exposure levels

Exposure RouteIngestion of plant material

Toxic CompoundsSalicin; Salicylic acid derivatives

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• Rinse mouth thoroughly to remove any remaining plant material after ingestion
• Induce vomiting only if explicitly directed by a doctor or veterinarian
• Watch for early signs of unusual bleeding from gums, nose or stool for 24 hours post exposure

Contact Vet Immediately

• If your pet ingests more than 1 small handful of plant material
• If any signs of unusual bleeding, lethargy or abdominal pain appear after exposure
• If your pet has pre-existing bleeding disorders or takes blood thinning medication

Prevention

• Avoid intentionally feeding any part of grey willow to pets or livestock
• Restrict access to willow stands for animals with diagnosed bleeding conditions
• Confirm full species identification before using any willow part for medicinal purposes

Treatment & Prognosis

• Supportive care including monitoring of blood coagulation function
• Administration of activated charcoal if ingestion occurred within 2 hours of presentation
• Symptomatic management of any bleeding events per medical provider guidance

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameSalix cinerea L.

AliasesCommon sallow、Grey sallow、Pussy willow、Rusty sallow

Toxicity Grade

HumansLow

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

Blood coagulation systemGastrointestinal tract (high doses only)

Mechanism of Action

• Salicylic acid derivatives in plant tissue inhibit platelet function, reducing blood clotting ability with high or prolonged exposure

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Cattle: No confirmed toxicity reported; excessive grazing may carry mild bleeding risk

Sheep: No documented adverse effects at typical low grazing intake levels

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

White willow Salix alba

Nearly identical leaf and catkin morphology; white willow has far higher salicylate content and greater associated bleeding risk

Purple willow Salix purpurea

Similar growth habit and native habitat; distinguishable by its narrower, purple-tinged young shoots

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Related Toxic Plants

Black willow

Salix nigra

Low to moderate toxicity, high bleeding risk with excessive intake

White poplar

Populus alba

Low toxicity, may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested

Eastern cottonwood

Populus deltoides

Low toxicity, salicylate content poses mild bleeding risk with large consumption

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

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