Is Yew Safe for Pets?
Taxus spp.
Find out if yew is safe for dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Yew
Yews are common evergreen hedges and ornamental shrubs. They contain taxine alkaloids that affect the heart and nervous system. Ingestion of needles, bark, or seeds can cause rapid onset of severe symptoms and may be fatal.
Is Yew Safe for Dogs?
Extremely toxic to dogs; needles, seeds, and bark can cause sudden death.
Is Yew Safe for Cats?
Highly toxic to cats; ingestion can cause tremors, difficulty breathing, and death.
Symptoms to Watch For
- drooling
- vomiting
- difficulty breathing
- tremors
- seizures
- collapse
- sudden death
What If My Pet Ate Yew?
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Yew poisoning can progress rapidly and may be fatal.
Safe Alternatives
Sources
- ASPCA
- Pet Poison Helpline
- MSD Veterinary Manual — Toxicology
- ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List for Cats
- ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List for Dogs
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.