Pet emergency
My cat ate Cyprus Cedar — what to do
Step by step
- Take cyprus cedar away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate cyprus cedar — FAQ
Is cyprus cedar poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Cyprus Cedar (Cedrus brevifolia) as mildly toxic to cats. Cedrus species are not individually listed by ASPCA. True cedar foliage and pollen can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested by pets and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Cedar essential oils can be harmful to cats. Treat with caution and keep away from pets that habitually browse foliage.
How serious is it if my cat ate cyprus cedar?
Cyprus Cedar is mildly toxic, so most cats get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your cat ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Cedrus species are not individually listed by ASPCA. True cedar foliage and pollen can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested by pets and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Cedar essential oils can be harmful to cats. Treat with caution and keep away from pets that habitually browse foliage. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep cyprus cedar well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is cyprus cedar toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Cyprus Cedar and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide