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If your cat ate fastigiata yew — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Fastigiata Yew is toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Fastigiata Yew — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take fastigiata yew away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 fastigiata yew — FAQ

Is fastigiata yew poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Fastigiata Yew (Taxus baccata 'Fastigiata') as toxic to cats. ASPCA classifies Taxus (yew), including English yew, as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Taxine alkaloids in foliage, bark and seeds can cause muscle tremors, dyspnea, seizures and sudden death from cardiac failure. Only the red aril flesh is safe. As one of the most poisonous garden plants, keep all prunings and seeds away from pets and livestock.

How serious is it if my cat ate fastigiata yew?

Fastigiata Yew is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. ASPCA classifies Taxus (yew), including English yew, as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Taxine alkaloids in foliage, bark and seeds can cause muscle tremors, dyspnea, seizures and sudden death from cardiac failure. Only the red aril flesh is safe. As one of the most poisonous garden plants, keep all prunings and seeds away from pets and livestock. 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 fastigiata yew well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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