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House Pet

Plants

Can cats eat yew?

Emergency

Yew safety for cats

Yew is highly toxic to cats. Taxine can disrupt the heart, and ASPCA lists acute heart failure and sudden death among the risks.

Toxic principle: taxine alkaloids

Watch for

  • acute heart failure
  • sudden collapse

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-28

Frequently asked questions

Can cats eat yew?

Yew is highly toxic to cats. Taxine can disrupt the heart, and ASPCA lists acute heart failure and sudden death among the risks.

What should I do if my cat ate yew?

Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.

What symptoms should I watch for with yew and cats?

acute heart failure, sudden collapse. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.

Read our methodology for how every cat food verdict is sourced and reviewed.