Are Cedar Trees Toxic to Cats?

Animal welfare groups have done a wonderful job making pet owners aware of the dangers of one common holiday plant, the poinsettia. But it isn't the only green-leafed danger. While most cedar trees are not toxic to cats, they can still cause gastrointestinal upset, and their sharp needles pose a risk of injury. You're better safe than sorry, so learn whether a specific cedar is safe or unsafe, then rid your home of potential problems.

  1. Safe Cedars

    • Many species of cedar tree are safe to have around your kitty, which means you can have that cedar Christmas tree in the home without having to shut kitty out of the room. Just because these safe trees won't kill your kitty doesn't mean there's no danger, however: Cats can sustain eye injuries if they walk into cedar needles or develop a tummy ache from eating the tree's sap.

    Toxic Cedars

    • Not all trees with "cedar" in their name are safe for cats. Known variously as the bead tree, Chinaberry tree, paradise tree, Persian lilac, Texas umbrella tree, pride of India tree and Japanese bead tree, the white cedar -- known scientifically as Melia azedarach -- poses a danger. According to the ASPCA, the ripe fruit is the biggest hazard for your cat, although the tree's bark, leaves and flowers can also be a problem. A cat who's nibbled on a white cedar tree might exhibit signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, weakness, depression and seizures.

    Cedar Species

    • Trees referred to as cedar may actually be cedar, juniper, arborvitae or other species. Atlas cedar, cedar of Lebanon, Eastern red cedar, western red cedar, northern white cedar and arborvitae orientale may be called cedar. These trees are all non-toxic for cats. If you're uncertain whether a particular tree is safe for your kitty, use the ASPCA's toxic and non-toxic plant lookup or consult another reference.

    Cat Behavior

    • Cats are generally good about using their common sense to stay away from plants that are poisonous, notes J. Anne Helgren. However, some inside kitties may nibble on poisonous plant leaves when no other greenery is available. While keeping cat grass in the home gives kitty something to snack on, you're best off leaving toxic plants, including white cedar, outside the house.