Boxwood
Also known as Boxwood Tree, American boxwood, English boxwood, Japanese boxwood. One plant, one grade per pet — the verdicts below are transcribed from primary sources and human-reviewed.
Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is toxic to cats (S1 Caution): the ASPCA lists alkaloids and, for dogs and cats, vomiting and diarrhea. Pet Poison Helpline says the foliage causes gastrointestinal distress.
FULL VERDICT →Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is toxic to dogs (S1 Caution): the ASPCA lists alkaloids and, for dogs and cats, vomiting and diarrhea. Pet Poison Helpline says the foliage causes gastrointestinal distress.
FULL VERDICT →Care at a glance
What happens if it's eaten
Signs on record for each animal, transcribed from the cited sources.
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal distress
When to call the vet
Contact your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists or worsens after boxwood ingestion.
FULL VERDICT →Contact your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists or worsens after boxwood ingestion.
FULL VERDICT →Seasonal: this plant comes into homes around the December holidays.
FAQ
Which boxwood does this verdict cover?
Buxus spp. on the ASPCA Boxwood entry. Pet Poison Helpline prints Buxus sp and the alternate names American boxwood, English boxwood, and Japanese boxwood. Both lines are genus-level boxwood. The family on the ASPCA entry is Buxaceae. Check the scientific name on the tag.
Do the horse signs apply to cats and dogs?
No. The ASPCA separates the lines. Dogs and cats: vomiting, diarrhea. Horses: colic, diarrhea, respiratory failure, seizures. Pet Poison Helpline says hoofstock, including horses, are especially vulnerable. The cat and dog grade uses the dog and cat line. Move the plant out of reach and contact your vet if signs persist or worsen.