Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Yew toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • weakness
  • difficulty breathing
  • heart rate changes
  • blood pressure changes
  • dilated pupils
  • tremors
  • seizures
  • coma
  • death

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary intervention is required for stabilization and decontamination; there is no specific antidote for taxine poisoning.

Why it's dangerous

The plant contains taxine alkaloids that cause life-threatening changes in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to cardiac failure and death.

Toxic compound: Taxines

Good to know

All parts of the plant are poisonous, including the red berries. Horses are also highly susceptible.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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