Is Japanese Yew Toxic to Cats?

Yes — Japanese Yew is severely toxic to cats

Japanese Yew is one of the most dangerous plants to pets. Taxine alkaloids cause cardiac arrest, and death can occur so rapidly that animals are sometimes found dead near the plant with no prior symptoms observed. Even small amounts of needles can be lethal.

Symptoms in Cats

If your cat eats Japanese Yew, watch for these symptoms (onset: 30 minutes to 2 hours):

Sudden death (can occur within hours)
Trembling
Difficulty breathing
Seizures
Heart failure
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What To Do

EMERGENCY: Japanese Yew can kill within hours. Rush to emergency vet immediately. There is no antidote — treatment is aggressive decontamination and supportive care.

This is a veterinary emergency for cats. Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Cat-Safe Alternatives to Japanese Yew

✓ Boston Fern ✓ Areca Palm ✓ Parlor Palm

Quick Facts

Scientific Name

Taxus cuspidata

Also Toxic to Dogs?

Yes (severe)

Toxic Compound

Taxine alkaloids

Toxic Parts

all parts except berry flesh, needles, bark, seeds

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline. View full Japanese Yew toxicity profile.