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Tailwise

Fruit

Can cats eat cherries?

A little In moderation

Better avoided. The flesh is not toxic, but the stones, stems and leaves are, and cats gain nothing from the fruit.

Why Cyanogenic glycosides in stones, stems and leaves

By Sam Okafor, CPDT-KAReviewed by Dr Elin Rosen, DVM ·
Photo: Krzysztof%20Puszczy%u0144ski (CC0) via stocksnap

If your cat ate some

  1. A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
  2. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
  3. If several stones were swallowed, call your vet.

Signs to watch for

  • Dilated pupils
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bright red gums
  • Vomiting

Serving it safely

  • Remove stones and stems
  • Avoid maraschino cherries

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs In moderation

Only pitted flesh. The flesh is fine, but stones, stems and leaves contain cyanide and stones can block the gut.

How much: One or two pitted cherries.

Can dogs eat cherries?

Cats In moderation

Better avoided. The flesh is not toxic, but the stones, stems and leaves are, and cats gain nothing from the fruit.

Safer treats your cat can have instead

Questions owners ask

Can cats eat cherries?

Better avoided. The flesh is not toxic, but the stones, stems and leaves are, and cats gain nothing from the fruit.

What makes cherries risky for cats?

Cyanogenic glycosides in stones, stems and leaves.

What are the signs to watch for in cats?

dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, bright red gums, vomiting.

What should I do if my cat ate cherries?

A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell. If several stones were swallowed, call your vet.

Is cherries safe for dogs too?

Only pitted flesh. The flesh is fine, but stones, stems and leaves contain cyanide and stones can block the gut.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: people foods to avoid
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: food hazards
  3. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines

Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts

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