It can also be seen in other areas where hickories grow. The black fuzzy caterpillar is found throughout North America and prefers hickory trees. It can also cause skin rashes in people who handle them.Įxposure to a black fuzzy caterpillar can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and rashes on your cat’s skin. The hairs of these caterpillars contain a toxin that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Yes, the black fuzzy caterpillars are extremely toxic to cats. In severe cases, dogs may have difficulty breathing or swallowing as well.Īre black fuzzy caterpillars poisonous to cats? This irritation is often limited to the mouth, producing excessive salivation and drooling. When a dog licks the affected area, it can become swollen and irritated. The hairs produce a compound that causes itching and swelling of the skin. The dog may vomit and develop diarrhea, but most signs are related to the skin. Its hairs are extremely toxic to dogs, especially when ingested. The fuzzy black caterpillar that is so common in the fall is called the hickory tussock moth. Are black fuzzy caterpillars poisonous to dogs? Some caterpillars are poisonous, but this is rare and usually only affects animals such as dogs. Most fuzzy black caterpillars are harmless to touch, though many have urticating hairs that can irritate skin and cause rashes. Each hair is tipped with a tiny barb that injects toxins into human skin upon contact. In Europe and southern Africa, the black-and-yellow caterpillar of the southern African tree nettle (Dendrocnide macrolides) is notorious for its stinging hairs. Although this furry critter may look cute and cuddly, it has toxic spines that can cause skin rashes. It’s covered in long, silky fur that resembles a cat’s fur, hence the name. The most notorious black caterpillar in North America is likely the puss moth (Megalopyge opercularis).
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