Pet safety
Is Western Red Cedar toxic to cats?
Thuja plicata
No — western red cedar is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Thuja plicata is not listed as toxic to cats, dogs, or horses on the ASPCA toxic plant lists. Arborvitae species are generally not considered significantly toxic to pets. The foliage contains thujone, which could theoretically cause mild GI upset if consumed in very large quantities, but ASPCA does not classify this species as toxic. Considered pet-safe; consult a vet if a pet ingests large amounts.
Is western red cedar toxic to cats? — FAQ
Is western red cedar toxic to cats?
No — western red cedar is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. Thuja plicata is not listed as toxic to cats, dogs, or horses on the ASPCA toxic plant lists. Arborvitae species are generally not considered significantly toxic to pets. The foliage contains thujone, which could theoretically cause mild GI upset if consumed in very large quantities, but ASPCA does not classify this species as toxic. Considered pet-safe; consult a vet if a pet ingests large amounts.
Is western red cedar safe for cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists western red cedar as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.
Is western red cedar toxic to dogs too?
The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Western Red Cedar is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full western red cedar pet-safety guide for both species.
What other plants are safe for cats?
Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.
Full western red cedar pet-safety
- Is western red cedar toxic to cats and dogs? — the full guide for both pets
- Is western red cedar toxic to dogs?
- Best cats-safe plants — the full ASPCA non-toxic list
- Complete western red cedar care guide