Yew

Yew

Taxus spp.
Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

EMERGENCY. Often fatal before treatment can begin. Immediate aggressive cardiac support. No specific antidote.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Japanese Yew, English Yew, Taxus

Taxaceae

outdoor

Highly Toxic — Emergency Risk

Toxicity Details

all parts except fleshy berry covering (aril)

Taxine alkaloids (taxine A and B)

1-3 hours (sudden death can occur without warning)

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Tremors
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Sudden cardiac arrest
  • Death

What to Do

EMERGENCY. Often fatal before treatment can begin. Immediate aggressive cardiac support. No specific antidote.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Yew

Yew is one of the most acutely toxic plants. Animals can die within hours — sometimes with no preceding symptoms. The taxine alkaloids cause fatal cardiac arrest. Extremely common as hedging and foundation plantings.

Safe Alternatives

These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets:

✓ Areca Palm ✓ Bamboo Palm ✓ Parlor Palm

Related:

Is Yew toxic to dogs? Is Yew toxic to cats?

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, Merck Veterinary Manual. Plant image from Wikimedia Commons (CC). Not a substitute for veterinary advice. Last reviewed: June 2026.