Is yew toxic to dogs or cats?
One of the most poisonous landscape shrubs: sudden cardiac death is possible.
Equally lethal for cats.
Yew contains taxine alkaloids that can stop the heart, and signs can appear with terrifying speed. It is a very common evergreen hedge, and trimmed clippings stay toxic. Any suspected ingestion means an emergency clinic, immediately.
Signs to watch for
- Trembling
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse
- Sudden death
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).