Yew
Taxus spp.
Yew (Taxus spp.), commonly known as Japanese Yew, English Yew, or Western Yew, is a popular slow-growing evergreen conifer frequently planted as ornam...
Symptoms to Watch For
Immediate First Aid
Emergency veterinary care required immediately. Ingestion can be fatal within minutes.
Current risk level for cats based on ingestion severity.
Information provided by BioLens Veterinary Database. In case of emergency, always consult a professional.
In-Depth Botanical Safety Analysis
Yew (Taxus spp.), commonly known as Japanese Yew, English Yew, or Western Yew, is a popular slow-growing evergreen conifer frequently planted as ornamental hedges in residential landscapes. However, it is an extremely lethal threat to cats and dogs. The entire plant, especially the needles and seeds, contains highly dangerous, fast-acting cardiotoxic alkaloids known as taxines (specifically taxine A and taxine B). Taxines act directly on myocardial calcium and sodium channels, inhibiting electrical conduction in the heart and causing lethal bradycardia (slow heart rate) and cardiac arrhythmias. If a pet chews on a yew branch, it can trigger severe muscle tremors, breathing difficulties, convulsions, and sudden, acute heart failure within minutes. Often, sudden death is the first and only visible sign of poisoning. There is no specific antidote; immediate emergency veterinary intervention is crucial to save the pet's life. This exceptionally hazardous evergreen should be kept out of all pet-friendly yards. Learn more about landscape safety on our Pet Guard Hub.
Toxic Parts
Safe Alternatives
None listed.
Global Names & Multilingual Search
Specific Safety FAQs for Yew
Is Yew toxic to cats?
Yes, Yew (Taxus spp.) is extremely lethal to cats. Ingestion of the leaves or seeds can cause sudden cardiovascular collapse and death in minutes.
Is Yew toxic to dogs?
Yes, Yew is highly lethal to dogs. It causes respiratory distress, tremors, seizures, and acute heart failure.
What toxic chemical makes Yew so dangerous to pets?
The entire plant contains highly toxic cardiotoxic alkaloids called taxines (including taxine A and B) which disrupt electrical impulses in the heart.
What is the emergency first aid for Yew ingestion?
Ingestion of Yew is an extreme medical emergency. Seek immediate emergency veterinary help. Do not wait for symptoms; speed is critical to save your pet's life.