Can cats eat cherries?
No, it's best not to. The ASPCA lists the cherry plant as toxic to cats: its stems, leaves and seeds (the stone) contain cyanide. Don't offer cherries to your cat, keep stones and plant parts out of reach, and call your vet if your cat chews any.
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Why
The stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanide (as cyanogenic glycosides) and are particularly toxic while wilting. The sources we found describe the risk from these plant parts and do not say the fruit flesh is safe for cats, so we do not recommend sharing it.
Signs to watch for
- Brick-red gums
- Dilated pupils
- Difficulty breathing
- Panting
- Shock
What to do
Contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away if your cat chewed a stone, stem or leaves. Note what was eaten, how much and when. Don't wait for signs to appear, and don't try to make your cat sick at home.
24-hour help by country →Questions and answers
Which part is the problem?
The ASPCA says the stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanide, and that they are particularly toxic while wilting.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Cherry (Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants) — ASPCA
- Cats and poisons — International Cat Care
- Common cat poisons and toxins — Blue Cross
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.