Is Boxwood Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, boxwood is toxic to cats and dogs. This common landscaping shrub, part of the Buxus genus, contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset if a pet chews on or eats any part of the plant.
While boxwood is a popular choice for hedges and garden borders due to its dense foliage, pet owners should be aware of the risks. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) includes it on its list of plants that are toxic to both cats and dogs, as well as horses.
Boxwood: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Boxwood |
|---|---|
| Other common names | None listed |
| Scientific name | Buxus spp. |
| Family | Buxaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Alkaloids |
| Clinical signs listed | Dogs and cats: vomiting, diarrhea; Horses: colic, diarrhea, respiratory failure, seizures |
What ASPCA lists for boxwood
The ASPCA identifies boxwood, known scientifically as Buxus spp., as toxic to cats and dogs. The plant’s toxicity comes from its alkaloids, which are naturally occurring chemical compounds. This means that the leaves, stems, and other parts of the shrub are all considered hazardous if consumed by a pet.
For cats and dogs, the ASPCA notes the following clinical signs associated with boxwood ingestion:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
These symptoms are a direct result of the gastrointestinal irritation caused by the plant’s toxic principles. The ASPCA database also lists boxwood as toxic to horses, with more severe potential symptoms including colic, diarrhea, respiratory failure, and seizures.
What this means in a home with pets
For households with pets, having boxwood shrubs in the yard or in decorative pots requires careful management. A curious dog or cat might be tempted to chew on the leaves or stems out of boredom or exploration. Even a small amount of the plant material can lead to an upset stomach.
Puppies and kittens are often more likely to mouth and chew on new things in their environment, which could put them at a higher risk. It is also wise to be cautious with clippings after pruning boxwood hedges. Piles of leaves and branches left on the ground can be an easy target for a pet to investigate and ingest.
Keeping cats and dogs and this plant apart
The most effective way to prevent boxwood poisoning is to ensure pets cannot access the plant. If you have boxwood in your garden, consider creating a barrier with fencing or other landscaping features to keep your dog away from the shrubs. Supervising your dog when it is outdoors is a key safety practice.
For cat owners, the challenge can be greater, especially for cats who are allowed outdoors. Keeping cats indoors is the surest way to prevent them from encountering boxwood and other potentially toxic yard plants. If you bring clippings inside for any reason, place them well out of reach of all pets and dispose of them securely. Always check the labels of any new plants you bring into your home or garden to understand their potential risks to pets.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat or dog has chewed on or eaten any part of a boxwood plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to share what part of the plant your pet ate, how much you think it consumed, and when it happened. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or provide any home remedies unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
Book an appointment soon
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.