Is Boxwood toxic to dogs and cats?
How serious is Boxwood for pets?
Alkaloids cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats; horses can see more severe colic, respiratory failure, or seizures. Usually not life-threatening from a small nibble, but call a vet for any real ingestion.
Buxus sempervirens
Also called: Common Box.
What makes it toxic
Alkaloids.
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (ASPCA entry for the genus)
Symptoms to watch for
- Dogs and cats: vomiting
- Dogs and cats: diarrhea
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (ASPCA entry for the genus)
What to do if your pet chewed it
- Move the plant out of reach so they cannot take another bite.
- If your pet is alert, gently rinse their mouth and offer a little water.
- Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, swelling, or lethargy.
Pet-safe swaps
The same green look without the toxicity worry. Each of these is non-toxic to both dogs and cats in our data.
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Buy Apollo a treatQuick answers about Boxwood
Is Boxwood toxic to cats?
Yes, Boxwood is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.
Is Boxwood toxic to dogs?
Yes, Boxwood is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.
What is Boxwood also called?
Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is also called Common Box.
More plant lists
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Scan your plantAlways confirm with a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before assuming safety. This is a household reference, not a substitute for professional guidance in a suspected poisoning.
· Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
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