Is Cedar Toxic To Cows

If you have cows and cedar trees on your property, you might be wondering about safety. Is cedar toxic to cows? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, and understanding the risks is crucial for protecting your herd.

While many cedar species aren’t classified as highly toxic, they can pose real dangers to livestock under certain conditions. The main concerns come from the oils in the wood and foliage, potential for physical harm, and the risk of nutritional deficiency if cows eat too much. Let’s look at what you need to know to keep your animals safe.

This question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. True cedars (Cedrus species) and many junipers (often called cedars in North America, like Eastern Red Cedar) contain compounds that can be problematic. The risk depends on the type of cedar, the part consumed, the amount, and the individual animal.

Understanding the Different Types of Cedar

First, it’s important to identify what trees you have. Common names can be confusing.

True Cedars (Cedrus): Like Atlas or Deodar cedar. These are often ornamental and contain aromatic oils.
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): This is actually a juniper. It’s widespread in pastures and is a common concern for livestock owners.
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata): Another common “cedar” that is part of the cypress family. Its oils are known to be irritants.

Most reports of toxicity in livestock involve the juniper-type “cedars,” especially Eastern Red Cedar.

How Cedar Can Harm Your Cows

The potential harm isn’t just about poison. Several mechanisms can affect your cattle’s health.

1. Essential Oils and Chemical Compounds

Cedar foliage and berries contain volatile oils and compounds like thujone, isocupressic acid, and terpenes. These can cause:

Digestive upset and irritation.
Kidney stress or damage with high, chronic intake.
Allergic reactions or respiratory irritation from dust.

2. The Risk of Abortion in Pregnant Cows

This is one of the most serious risks. Compounds in junipers (especially Eastern Red Cedar) are known to cause abortion in late-term pregnant cows. The risk is highest when cows consume the foliage or berries in the third trimester, often when other forage is scarce.

3. Physical Obstruction and Choking Hazards

This is a often overlooked danger. Cows don’t chew wood like beavers do.

Large pieces of cedar bark or branches can cause choke (esophageal obstruction).
Splinters can lead to mouth injuries or internal punctures.
Eating large amounts can cause a physical gut impaction.

4. Nutritional Displacement and Starvation

Perhaps the biggest threat in many situations. If your pasture is overrun with cedar and quality forage is limited, cows may fill up on cedar browse. It is low in nutritional value and can lead to:

Weight loss and poor body condition.
Reduced milk production in nursing cows.
Weakened immune systems, making them suceptible to disease.

Signs Your Cows May Have Ingested Too Much Cedar

Watch for these symptoms, especially if you know they have access to cedar.

Sudden abortion in late pregnancy without other clear cause.
Loss of appetite or going off their feed.
Diarrhea or signs of digestive discomfort.
Unusual weakness, lethargy, or depression.
Excessive drooling or signs of mouth irritation.

If you observe these signs, it’s crucial to remove access to the cedar immediately and contact your veterinarian. They can provide supportive care and rule out other illnesses.

Practical Management Strategies for Your Farm

Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are steps you can take to manage the risk.

Step 1: Assess Your Pasture and Fencing

Walk your pastures regularly. Identify areas where cedar is encroaching or where cows might have access to trimmings or fallen branches.

Check fence lines near cedar windbreaks.
Look for areas where soil erosion or overgrazing has allowed cedar seedlings to take hold.
Ensure any brush piles from land clearing are securely fenced off.

Step 2: Provide Ample Quality Forage and Feed

A well-fed cow is less likely to browse on undesirable plants. This is your best defense.

Practice rotational grazing to maintain healthy grass.
Provide quality hay during winter or drought when pasture is sparse.
Ensure mineral supplements are always available to prevent cravings for odd plants.

Step 3: Safe Removal and Disposal of Cedar

If you need to clear cedar, do it safely for your livestock.

Cut trees and remove them from the pasture entirely if possible.
Never leave fresh trimmings where cows can get to them. The fresh foliage can be more palatable and contain higher oil concentrations.
If chipping, use chips for pathways or areas livestock cannot access. Do not use cedar chips as bedding for cows, as they may ingest them.
Consider professional help for large-scale clearing.

Step 4: Use Cedar Lumber in Barns and Fences Safely

Cedar lumber is popular for fencing and barns due to its rot resistance. The risk from dry, seasoned lumber is very low, as cows are unlikely to chew on fence posts. However, avoid using fresh-milled cedar where they might lick or chew it, like in stall interiors.

What About Cedar Bedding or Cedar Oil?

This is a common question from folks looking for natural pest solutions.

Cedar Shavings Bedding: Generally not recommended for cows. They are more likely to ingest them compared to horses, and the chronic exposure to dust and oils could cause issues. Stick to straw or other approved bedding.
Cedar Oil as a Pest Repellent: Using commercial cedar oil products on or around cows is not advised without veterinary consultation. The concentrated oils could cause skin irritation or be harmful if ingested during grooming.

FAQ: Your Cedar and Livestock Questions Answered

Q: Are cedar trees bad for cows?
A: They can be. While not acutely poisonous in most cases, they pose risks like abortion, digestive issues, and can displace nutritious food, leading to poor health.

Q: Can cows eat cedar berries?
A: It’s best to prevent it. The berries from Eastern Red Cedar (juniper) are particularly associated with causing abortions in pregnant cows.

Q: Is cedar sawdust safe for livestock?
A: No, it’s not ideal. The fine dust can cause respiratory irritation, and if consumed, it can lead to impaction or expose them to concentrated oils. Its best used for non-livestock purposes.

Q: My cow ate some cedar branches. What should I do?
A: Remove all access immediately. Monitor her closely for any signs of illness listed above. For a pregnant cow, inform your vet of the potential exposure. Provide plenty of good hay and fresh water to help move any material through her system.

Q: Are all junipers toxic to cattle?
A: Many are, especially in the late summer and fall when other plants dry up. Eastern Red Cedar is the most common culprit, but other juniper species may also pose a risk. Its good practice to manage all juniper access.

Q: How can I stop cedar from spreading in my pasture?
A: Consistent management is key. Control involves cutting, prescribed burning (where safe and legal), or using approved herbicides on cut stumps. Promoting thick, healthy grass competition is the best long-term prevention.

Final Thoughts on Cedar and Cow Safety

The relationship between cedar and cows requires careful management. While the occasional nibble may not cause harm, making cedar a significant part of their diet is risky. The potential for abortion alone makes it a serious concern for any breeding operation.

Your vigilance as a farmer or landowner is the most important factor. By providing excellent nutrition, managing your pasture wisely, and controlling cedar access, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your cattle remain healthy and productive. Always err on the side of caution and consult with a local veterinarian or extension agent for advice specific to your region and herd. They can provide the best guidance based on the plants common in your area.