Is Cypress Toxic to Cats? (And Lemon Cypress?)

No, cypress is not toxic to cats. However, the plant does contain a saponin called cypressene, which can cause an upset stomach if ingested in large quantities.

If your cat does eat a large quantity of cypress, monitor them for vomiting or diarrhea and contact your veterinarian if they exhibit any concerning symptoms.

In this blog post I’ll be discuss are cypress tree safe for your cat, what are the risks associated with ingestion, and what to do if your cat does eat cypress.

Are Cypress Trees Safe for Cats?

For cat lovers, there’s nothing quite like seeing their furry friend perched atop a healthy tree. However, not all trees are created equal when it comes to safety.

Cypress trees, for example, are often sought after for their attractive foliage and pleasant fragrance. But while they may be beautiful to look at, cypress trees can actually be dangerous for cats.

The leaves and branches of these trees are coated in a harmful substance called saponin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. In addition, the sharp needles of the cypress tree can cause cuts and punctures.

For these reasons, it’s best to avoid planting cypress trees if you have cats. There are plenty of other options that are both safe and stylish.

Interesting Read: Are Pine Trees Toxic To Cats?

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Cypress Tree?

Here I’ll provide some tips for what to do if your cat unfortunately ingests cypress tree.

1. Observe Your Cat Closely

Yes, even indoor cats can get into trouble. If you have a cypress tree in your yard, keep a close eye on your cat to make sure they don’t eat any of the leaves or needles.

If you notice your cat chewing on a cypress tree, immediately give them a toy (if they are not scared of them) or treat to distract them. You may also want to consider spraying the tree with a bitter-tasting deterrent to keep them away.

2. Watch for Symptoms

If your cat does ingest saponin, they may vomit or have diarrhea. In some cases, they may also experience difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat to the vet immediately.

3. Know the Treatment

Treatment for saponin poisoning will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. In some cases, your vet may simply recommend giving your cat plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

In more serious cases, your cat may need to be hospitalized and given IV fluids. They may also require medication to control vomiting and diarrhea.

4. Prevent Future Incidents

Once your cat has recovered, take steps to prevent them from eating cypress tree again. If you have a cypress tree in your yard, remove it or make it inaccessible to your cat.

You may also want to consider planting another type of tree that is safe for cats. There are many options to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste.

Is Lemon Cypress Toxic to Cats?

Most cats are attracted to the lemon cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) for its strong citrus scent.

While the essential oils in lemon cypress can be beneficial to humans, they can be toxic to cats. Ingesting even a small amount of lemon cypress oil can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats.

In severe cases, it can lead to liver damage and even death. If you have a lemon cypress plant in your home, make sure it’s out of reach of your furry friend. And if you think your cat has ingested any oil from the plant, call your veterinarian immediately.

Is Cypress Toxic to Other Animals?

There’s been a lot of debate lately about whether or not cypress is toxic to other animals. Some people say that it’s perfectly safe, while others claim that it can be deadly. So, what’s the truth?

As it turns out, there is no definitive answer. While cypress may be poisonous to some animals, there is no evidence that it is universally harmful. In fact, many animals seem to tolerate cypress quite well.

So, if you’re wondering whether or not cypress is right for your pet, the best thing to do is to consult with a veterinarian or animal expert. They’ll be able to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe Near Cypress Trees?

If you have a cypress tree on your property, there are some steps you can take to keep your cat safe.

1. Make sure the tree is fenced off

I know this isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing solution, but it will keep your cat safe. If you can’t fence off the tree, consider covering it with a net or tarp.

2. Keep your cat indoors

This may not be possible for everyone, but it’s the best way to keep your cat safe. If you do let your cat outside, make sure they are supervised at all times.

3. Avoid planting cypress trees

May I sound like a broken record, but if you have cats, it’s best to avoid planting cypress trees. There are plenty of other options that are both safe and stylish.

The Bottom Line

As you can see cypress is not the toxic tree it’s made out to be. However, the saponin found in the tree can be harmful to cats if ingested in large quantities.

If you have a cypress tree on your property, take steps to keep your cat safe. And if you think your cat has ingested any saponin, call your veterinarian immediately.