What to do after ingestion
Drooling, vomiting, rapid breathing, lethargy.
Seek veterinary care immediately if a pit was eaten.
Amygdalin
Cherry pits are toxic to cats as well and carry an obstruction risk; cats do not need fruit, so it is best avoided.
What to do after ingestion
After eating a pit: drooling, vomiting, rapid breathing, bright red mucous membranes, tremors; obstruction causes repeated retching and abdominal pain.
Contact a vet immediately if a pit was eaten; a small amount of flesh only needs observation.
Amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside)
Cherry pits, leaves and twigs contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when chewed; the flesh is sugary but low risk in small amounts.
Nutrition
Per 100 g, edible portionData source:USDA FoodData Central · SR Legacy · Accessed on:2026-09-28
Cat · Safe feeding conditions
CautionNo additional condition notes for this food
Clinical and veterinary sources
Cherry pits are toxic to cats as well and carry an obstruction risk; cats do not need fruit, so it is best avoided.
Amygdalin
Drooling, vomiting, rapid breathing, lethargy.
Seek veterinary care immediately if a pit was eaten.
Keep pits from the summer fruit bowl out of reach.
Dog · Safe feeding conditions
CautionNo additional condition notes for this food
Clinical and veterinary sources
Cherry pits, leaves and twigs contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when chewed; the flesh is sugary but low risk in small amounts.
Amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside)
After eating a pit: drooling, vomiting, rapid breathing, bright red mucous membranes, tremors; obstruction causes repeated retching and abdominal pain.
Contact a vet immediately if a pit was eaten; a small amount of flesh only needs observation.
Never hand a whole cherry with the pit; candied cherries, cherry pie and liqueur-soaked fruit are far worse.
This website is for reference only and does not replace a licensed veterinarian. If your pet has eaten a suspected toxin or shows symptoms, contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
