Is Cedar Toxic To Cows

For any rancher or cattle producer, managing pasture health and safe feed sources is a constant priority. A common question that arises in regions with these trees is, is cedar toxic to cows? Understanding cedar’s effects on cattle is important for ranchers managing pastures and feed sources.

The answer is not a simple yes or no. While cedar trees themselves are not typically a primary forage choice, certain situations can lead to toxicity. The main risks come from specific types of cedar, the plant part consumed, and the quantity ingested.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the different cedar species, the specific toxins involved, the signs of poisoning, and most importantly, how to prevent it on your land.

The potential toxicity of cedar to cows depends heavily on the species of tree. Not all plants commonly called “cedar” are true cedars, and their chemical makeup varies significantly. The two primary groups of concern in North America are junipers, often called cedars, and true cedars.

Juniper species, like Eastern Red Cedar and Western Juniper, pose the most documented risk to cattle. True cedars, such as Eastern White Cedar, present a different but still notable danger. Let’s break down the key differences.

Juniper Species And Their Risks

Many trees ranchers call cedar are actually junipers from the *Juniperus* genus. These are often the biggest concern in grazing scenarios.

Eastern Red Cedar

This is one of the most common and problematic species. Eastern Red Cedar contains compounds that can cause digestive and metabolic issues, particularly in pregnant cows. The primary concern is its potential to cause abortion or weak calves when consumed in significant amounts, especially during the last trimester.

It is often invaded pastures and can be eaten when other forage is scarce.
The berries and tips of the branches contain the highest concentration of problematic oils.
Consumption can also lead to reduced feed intake and digestive upset.

Western Juniper

Similar to its eastern counterpart, Western Juniper expansion in rangelands has increased cattle exposure. It contains volatile oils and compounds that can be toxic, affecting kidney function and digestion. Cows may browse on these trees during winter or drought conditions when grass is limited.

True Cedar Species

True cedars belong to the *Cedrus* genus and are less common in many grazing areas but are still worth noting. They are more often found in ornamental or timber settings.

Eastern White Cedar

Also known as Arborvitae, this tree contains thujone, a volatile oil that is a known toxin. Ingestion, particularly of the fresh foliage, can lead to neurological signs and gastrointestinal irritation in livestock. However, cattle rarely choose to eat it unless they have no other option.

The Role Of Essential Oils And Compounds

The toxicity in both junipers and true cedars is largely linked to their essential oils. These natural compounds defend the tree against insects and disease but can harm livestock.

Thujone: Found in true cedars and some junipers, it can cause neurological symptoms like tremors and seizures in high doses.
Isocupressic Acid: This is the compound in junipers like Eastern Red Cedar that is primarily responsible for causing abortion in late-term pregnant cattle.
Volatile Oils: These oils can irritate the digestive tract, leading to diarrhea, colic, and a loss of appetite.

Identifying Cedar Poisoning In Your Herd

Recognizing the signs of cedar poisoning early can help you take action and consult your veterinarian promptly. Symptoms can vary based on the type of cedar, the amount eaten, and the animal’s condition.

Clinical Signs Of Toxicity

If you suspect your cattle have consumed a dangerous amount of cedar, look for these symptoms. They may appear within hours or over a few days.

Abortion: This is the most significant and economically devastating sign linked to juniper consumption. It typically occurs in the third trimester without much warning.
Weak Newborn Calves: Calves born alive may be exceptionally weak, unable to stand or nurse properly, and may not survive.
Digestive Upset: Look for signs of colic, bloating, diarrhea, or a complete loss of interest in feed.
Neurological Signs: With true cedar poisoning, you might observe muscle tremors, lack of coordination, or in severe cases, seizures.
General Depression: Affected animals often appear lethargic, dull, and separated from the rest of the herd.

When To Call The Veterinarian

Immediate veterinary assistance is crucial if you observe multiple animals showing symptoms or any signs of neurological distress or late-term abortion. There is no specific antidote for cedar poisoning, so treatment is supportive.

Remove all animals immediately from the pasture or area containing the cedar.
Provide plenty of fresh water and high-quality hay to help dilute and move the toxins through the system.
Your vet may administer fluids to combat dehydration and medications to protect the gut and liver.
For pregnant cows that have been exposed, close monitoring is essential, though abortion may be unpreventable once a toxic dose has been consumed.

Prevention And Pasture Management Strategies

Prevention is always more effective and economical than treatment. A proactive approach to pasture management can significantly reduce the risk of cedar toxicity in your cattle.

Controlling Cedar Encroachment

Junipers are invasive in many grasslands and can quickly take over a pasture if not managed. Regular control is key.

Mechanical Removal: Using bulldozers or tree shears to physically remove trees. Be sure to dispose of or burn the debris so cattle cannot browse on the wilted leaves, which can sometimes be more palatable.
Prescribed Burning: In ecosystems adapted to fire, controlled burns can effectively kill young cedar seedlings. This requires careful planning and favorable weather conditions.
Herbicide Application: Specific herbicides can be effective, particularly when applied as a cut-stump treatment or foliar spray. Always follow label directions and consider grazing withdrawal times.

Providing Adequate Forage

Cattle are most likely to eat cedar when they are hungry and other food is scarce. Ensuring they always have access to good nutrition is your best defense.

Practice rotational grazing to maintain healthy, abundant grass in your pastures.
During winter or drought, provide supplemental feed such as hay or cubes to keep rumens full and satisfied.
Regularly test your forage and soil to ensure proper mineral balance; sometimes, unusual eating habits stem from a nutritional deficiency.

Strategic Fencing And Access

Limiting access to areas heavily infested with cedar, especially for vulnerable animals, is a simple but effective tactic.

Fence off dense cedar stands, particularly during late pregnancy for your cow herd.
Consider creating a sacrifice lot or drylot for feeding during high-risk periods when pasture is sparse but cedar is accessible.
If clearing land, ensure cattle cannot access the piled brush, as they may be tempted to nibble on it.

Other Livestock Considerations

While the focus here is on cows, it’s useful to know how other common livestock react to cedar. Sensitivity varies greatly between species.

Sheep And Goats

Sheep and goats are more resistant to juniper toxins than cattle. In fact, goats are sometimes used as a biological control method to browse and reduce juniper populations. However, they are not immune, and very high consumption, particularly of certain species, could still cause issues.

Horses

Horses are generally more susceptible to poisoning from true cedars (like Eastern White Cedar) than cattle. The thujone can cause severe colic and neurological problems. It’s recommended to avoid using cedar shavings from these trees as bedding for horses, as they might ingest them.

The Bedding Question

A common related question is about cedar wood shavings for bedding. For cattle, using shavings from juniper or cedar species is generally considered low risk, as they are unlikely to eat large quantities of dry bedding. However, for other animals like horses or small pets, caution is advised due to the aromatic oils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are clear answers to some common questions ranchers have about cedar and cattle.

Can Cedar Berries Kill Cows?

Cedar berries, especially from juniper species, contain concentrated oils and are more likely to cause toxicity than the foliage alone. While a few berries may not cause harm, consumption of a large quantity, particularly by a pregnant cow, can lead to abortion or serious illness, which could be fatal.

Is It Safe For Cows To Eat Cedar Branches?

No, it is not considered safe. While cows might occasionally nibble without immediate effect, allowing regular consumption of cedar branches, especially from junipers, introduces a significant risk. The cumulative intake of toxic compounds can lead to health problems and reproductive failure.

How Much Cedar Is Toxic To A Cow?

There is no precise, universally safe amount, as toxicity depends on the tree species, the animal’s size, pregnancy status, and overall health. The general rule is that any consumption beyond occasional, minimal browsing should be discouraged. For pregnant cows, even a moderate amount of certain junipers over several days can be enough to cause abortion.

What Should I Do If My Cow Ate Cedar?

First, move your cow and the rest of the herd away from the source. Provide ample fresh water and good hay. Monitor the animal closely for any signs of distress, digestive upset, or if pregnant, any signs of impending abortion. Contact your veterinarian to discuss the situation and determine if an examination is needed.

Are All Cedar Trees Bad For Cattle?

Not all are equally dangerous, but it is difficult and risky to identify safe species in a pasture setting. Since junipers (the most common “cedars”) pose a clear threat, the most practical approach for ranchers is to manage and minimize all cedar access, treating them as a potential risk to herd health and productivity.

Managing cedar in cattle country requires vigilance and proactive pasture management. The key takeaway is that while cedar might not be acutely toxic in every single instance, its potential to cause abortion and illness makes it a serious economic threat. By controlling encroachment, ensuring quality forage, and limiting access, you can protect your herd’s health and your operation’s bottom line. Always observe your animals closely and maintain a good relationship with your veterinarian for the best advice tailored to your specific land and livestock.