Why it is dangerous to cats
Yew contains substances that act on the heart and the nervous system. The needles, twigs, bark and the seeds inside the red berries are poisonous. Cut and dried branches keep their poison too.
Signs can appear quickly: the cat may tremble, wobble and struggle to breathe, its heart rhythm can be upset, and it may suddenly collapse. How much of the plant does harm cannot be judged at home.
Yews are planted as hedges and around houses. If your cat may have chewed yew or played with its twigs, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if it seems well. Take a photo of the twig or the twig itself with you.
What to watch out for
- Trembling and wobbliness can follow.
- The cat can struggle to breathe.
- The heart rhythm can be upset, and the cat may suddenly collapse.
- Vomiting can follow.
- Cut and dried branches stay poisonous, so do not leave them where your cat walks.
Which parts are dangerous
Not every part of the plant is equally dangerous.
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Needles and twigs
DangerousThey contain substances that act on the heart, even when dry.
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Berries
DangerousThe red berry holds a poisonous seed.
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Cut branches
DangerousBranches left after pruning stay poisonous.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
Safe plants instead
Plants that are safer to keep.