| Term | Yew |
| Category | Herbs |
| Definition | The yew is an evergreen conifer that is highly toxic to horses. Even small amounts can be life-threatening. |
| Effects & Risks | Yews contain taxines. These toxins primarily affect the heart and circulatory system and can trigger severe cardiac arrhythmias. It is particularly insidious that poisoning can progress very rapidly. |
| Use | The yew has no place in horse feeding. Trees, hedges, branches, and garden waste must be kept strictly out of reach of horses. |
| Fresh or dried? | Yew is highly toxic both fresh and dried. Even cut or wilted branches remain dangerous and must never be disposed of in pastures or paddocks. |
| Important to know | Possible signs include restlessness, staggering, muscle tremors, breathing difficulties, slowed or irregular heartbeat, and circulatory collapse. In some cases, death can occur before any clear symptoms are noticed. If ingestion is suspected, a veterinarian must be contacted immediately. |
| Related terms | Toxic plants · Poisoning · Pasture control · Boxwood · Cardiac arrhythmias |
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