Is Yew Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: English Yew, Japanese Yew, Taxus baccata · Taxus baccata
What makes it toxic
Taxine alkaloids, potent cardiotoxins present in all parts except the red aril flesh. They depress heart conduction and can cause fatal arrhythmia within hours.
Warning signs to watch for
Trembling, wobbliness, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, vomiting, bradycardia, seizures and sudden collapse — sometimes with little warning before death.
What to do if your cat eats it
Absolute emergency. Go to a veterinary ER immediately, bringing a sample of the needles or berries chewed. Treatment must start before major arrhythmias — do not wait to see how the cat looks.
Common questions
Is one yew needle enough to harm a cat?
Small amounts already matter. While a single needle may only cause drooling, the dose-to-body-weight ratio in cats makes any yew ingestion an emergency.
Are the red berries the dangerous part?
The seeds inside the red aril are dangerous; the fleshy red cup is the least toxic part. But cats do not dissect berries — treat the whole plant as lethal.
Do dried yew clippings stay toxic?
Yes — taxine remains potent in dried trimmings for months. Compost piles and garden waste heaps are common exposure sites.
More plants checked for cats
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.