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Is Western Red Cedar Toxic to Cats?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, western red cedar is mildly toxic to cats. Its foliage contains thujone-rich oils that irritate the stomach when chewed.

Also known as: Giant Arborvitae, Pacific Red Cedar · Thuja plicata

What makes it toxic

Thujone and related volatile oils in the scale-like leaves and bark. They irritate the GI tract and in large amounts can affect the nervous system.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting and mild diarrhea within hours of chewing. Heavy ingestion may add lethargy or tremors.

What to do if your cat eats it

Remove access, rinse the mouth and offer water. Monitor for a day; call your vet for persistent vomiting, and treat tremors as an emergency.

Common questions

Is cedar mulch dangerous to cats?

Cedar mulch releases the same oils. Walking on it is harmless, but a cat that chews or eats mulch pieces can get an upset stomach, so choose pet-safe mulch for chewers.

Is western red cedar the same as arborvitae?

It is a Thuja species, closely related to arborvitae, and shares the thujone-containing foliage. Treat both as mildly toxic.

More plants checked for cats

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or vines releases sharp calcium oxalate crystalAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. The gel is famously soothing for human skin, buSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. They are one of the best houseplants for homes with curEaster Lily☠️ ToxicYes — and this is one of the most dangerous plants a cat can meet. Every part of an Easter lily,Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to cats and among the deadliest houseplants. Every part contaiBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats — a classic choice for plant-loving cat households.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.