Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Boxwood
Buxus spp.
Boxwood is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging and topiary, containing steroidal alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. It is considered toxic to both cats and dogs.
BoxwoodBuxusBuxus spp.Common Box
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and potential lethargy.
Escalation note
While typically causing mild to moderate digestive irritation, ingestion of large quantities should be treated as a medical concern. Contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Boxwood is listed as toxic to cats and dogs, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Buxus is a genus of about 70 species in the family Buxaceae, known for its use in formal gardens and its toxic properties if ingested.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Azalea
Rhododendron spp
Azaleas are flowering shrubs in the Rhododendron genus that contain grayanotoxins, which can cause significant illness if ingested by pets. These plants are highly toxic and require immediate veterinary attention if consumption is suspected.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Barbados Pride
Poinciana gilliesii
Barbados Pride is a flowering shrub known for its striking yellow flowers and long red stamens. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Castor Bean
Ricinus communis
The African Wonder Tree is a fast-growing ornamental shrub known for its large, palm-like leaves and unique seed pods. It contains ricin, a highly potent toxin found throughout the plant, with the highest concentration in the seeds.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Desert Bird of Paradise
Caesalpinia gilliesii
Caesalpinia gilliesii, often called the Bird of Paradise shrub, is a flowering plant known for its striking yellow and red blooms. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.