Cats
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
cat safety reference
Is Yew safe for cats?
Taxus spp.
Yew is a genus of evergreen conifers known for their high toxicity due to the presence of taxine alkaloids. All parts of the plant, including needles and seeds, are considered dangerous if ingested.
English YewJapanese YewTaxus baccataTaxus spp.
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Habit
- Evergreen shrub or tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Yew is one of the most dangerous shrubs a cat can encounter. All parts of the plant except the red berry flesh contain taxine A and B alkaloids, which block sodium and calcium channels in heart muscle and can cause fatal arrhythmias with very little chewing. Cats often nibble out of curiosity, so even a small encounter is a same-hour emergency.
What to watch for
Watch for drooling, vomiting, and trembling first. Cardiac and respiratory signs follow: a weak or irregular pulse, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, weakness, and collapse. In severe cases the first sign is sudden death — onset is rapid and progression can be steep.
Time window
Signs (and in worst cases, death) can occur within minutes to several hours of ingestion. Some cases have been reported with symptoms appearing several days after exposure, so monitoring should continue beyond the first day.
When to call the vet
Call immediately. Any suspected yew ingestion in a cat is a drive-to-the-ER emergency. Phone ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) en route — do not wait to see whether symptoms develop.
First aid at home
Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and surroundings and bring a sample (or a clear photo of the shrub and berries) for identification. Do not induce vomiting at home and do not give activated charcoal without veterinary direction — call ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) and follow their instructions while you transport your cat.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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
Tremors, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, and potential cardiac failure.
Escalation note
Ingestion is considered a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Yew contains taxine, which is a cardiotoxic alkaloid that can cause sudden death in animals.
Same cat verdict
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