Trees that are toxic to animals

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Some trees carry a genuine poisoning risk to animals. This page groups the ones in our range that are worth knowing about before you plant, so you can make the call with your dog, horse or livestock in mind. Two different risks sit here, and they affect different animals. White Cedar (Melia azedarach) is the serious one for dogs and livestock. The berries are highly toxic and are one of the more common plant poisoning cases seen by Australian vets. Dogs are at most risk because fallen berries are attractive to chew. Pigs, sheep and cattle are also affected. Signs can include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and tremors. If you have a dog that chews or stock with access, choose a different tree. Canadian Maple (Acer rubrum) and Box Elder (Acer negundo) are a horse problem specifically, not a dog or cat one. Wilted or fallen red maple leaves can cause serious haemolytic anaemia in horses, and box elder seeds are linked to seasonal pasture myopathy. Both are safe enough in a suburban garden with no horses. Avoid planting either in or beside a paddock, and never dump prunings where horses can reach them. Toxicity always depends on the animal, the part eaten and the amount. If an animal has eaten part of a plant and seems unwell, contact your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline straight away rather than waiting to see. If you want a safe alternative for a pet or horse property, tell us what you are trying to achieve and we will suggest something that does the same job without the risk.