Is English Yew Toxic to Cats?

Cats are part of our households, and we want to ensure their safety as much as possible. This means keeping an eye on anything that could be toxic to them, including plants. One of these plants is the English Yew (Taxus baccata). Although this evergreen tree is appealing as a garden or landscape plant, it is known to be toxic to animals. Does this include cats too? Let's find out.

What is English Yew?

The English Yew is a small to medium-sized tree that has an evergreen foliage. It is a common sight in gardens and parks, often used for hedging, as it responds well to pruning. The tree's bark is reddish-gray, and its needles are dark green, with a flattened appearance and a glossy texture. The English Yew is native to Western, Central, and Southern Europe, North Africa, and some areas of Asia. It grows well in damp environments, for instance, along riverbanks.

Why is English Yew Toxic?

The English Yew contains a volatile alkaloid called taxine, which is present in all its parts, but more concentrated in the needles and seeds. Although taxine is potent, it doesn't trigger an immediate reaction. Instead, it accumulates over time in the body and causes malfunction. The symptoms of yew poisoning vary depending on the affected animal, plant part eaten, and the quantity ingested. Some of the signs of toxicity in pets include gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, muscle tremors, seizures, and death. Most pets die within a few hours of exposure.

Are Cats Susceptible to Yew Poisoning?

Yes. Cats are immensely vulnerable to yew poisoning, and they don't need to consume much of it to be harmed. According to research by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), yew poisoning accounts for about 10% of all toxic plant-related deaths in cats. This shows that cats should be kept away from English yew, whether in the garden or as a house plant. This is because unlike dogs, who tend to avoid non-food items unless they're trained otherwise, cats are generally curious and often nibble on plants as a part of their grooming routine or due to boredom.

What Should You Do if Your Cat Ingests Yew?

If you suspect that your cat has eaten English Yew or any other toxic plant, take them to the vet without delay. Time is of the essence when it comes to yew poisoning, and the earlier your cat receives treatment, the better their chances of survival. Your vet may induce vomiting to get rid of any unabsorbed toxins in the stomach, administer activated charcoal to absorb the remaining toxins, or give IV fluids and other supportive care. Treatment options for yew poisoning in cats are limited, and the prognosis is generally poor. Therefore, prevention is the best approach.

What are Cat-Safe Alternatives to English Yew?

It's crucial to avoid planting toxic plants in areas that your pets frequent or allowing them to nibble freely on indoor/outdoor plants. Instead, consider cat-safe alternatives such as:

• African Violet
• Boston Fern
• Spider Plant
• Bamboo Palm
• Marigold

These plants are not only safe for cats but also have air-purifying properties, making them a natural addition to any home. If you must plant English Yew in your landscape, make sure it's away from your cat and other pets. If you have indoor yew plants, keep them out of the reach of curious pets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, English Yew is toxic to cats and other animals, and pets should be kept away from them. If your cat ingests yew, seek immediate veterinary care. Prevention is the best approach, and cat-safe alternatives are available for pet owners who desire to have plants around their homes. Always consult with your vet or a qualified horticulturist before bringing new plants into your home or garden if you're unsure if they're safe for your pets.