Plant toxicology for cats
Is Yew toxic to cats?
Taxus baccata, Taxus cuspidata · Taxaceae
Verdict: Is Yew toxic to cats?
Yes — Yew is toxic to cats. Yew (Taxus baccata, Taxus cuspidata) can make a cat ill. Risk depends on the amount, plant part, body size and the individual animal.
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Contact a veterinarian immediately
Do not wait for symptoms and do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional tells you to. Take a plant sample or clear photo with you.
- 1Contact an emergency veterinarian or pet poison service immediately.
- 2Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional instructs you to.
- 3Take a plant sample, label, or clear photo with you.
Possible signs after Yew exposure include:
- Trembling
- Wobbly gait
- Difficulty breathing
- Slow heart rate
- Collapse
- Sudden cardiac arrest
Typical onset: Minutes to a few hours; can be sudden with no warning signs
Taxine alkaloids in needles, bark and seed; the red flesh of the berry is the only low-risk part
Veterinary sources
Reviewed by Dr. Patti McCartney, Animal Naturopathic Doctor. This educational guide supports, but does not replace, diagnosis or treatment from a licensed veterinarian. Risk varies by dose, plant part, body size and health history.