Is Yew Toxic to Cats?
Yes — yew is toxic to cats and can be fatal.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Slow, fast or irregular heartbeat
- Weakness
- Collapse; can be fatal
Toxic parts
All parts except the red flesh of the berry; seeds are toxic
Toxic compound
Taxine alkaloids
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Yew is extremely dangerous, especially for horses, where sudden death can occur. Dogs and cats can develop heart failure.
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Frequently asked questions
Is yew toxic to cats?
Yes — yew is toxic to cats and can be fatal. Yew is extremely dangerous, especially for horses, where sudden death can occur. Dogs and cats can develop heart failure.
What are the symptoms of yew poisoning in cats?
Vomiting. Diarrhea. Drooling. Slow, fast or irregular heartbeat. Weakness. Collapse; can be fatal.
What should I do if my cat ate yew?
Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to. Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate. Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
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