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Can Cats Eat Cherries?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are cherries safe for cats?
Cherries are small, sweet stone fruits. Like other stone fruits, their pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide-producing compounds. The flesh of a pitted cherry is not toxic to cats, but the pit, stem and leaves contain cyanide-producing compounds, so it is simplest to avoid cherries altogether. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need cherries. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer cherries
- If you offer any at all, remove the pit, stem and leaves completely first
- Offer only a small piece of flesh
- Keep cherry pits from snacks or baking well out of reach
What to avoid
- The pits, stems and leaves, which contain cyanide-producing compounds
- Maraschino cherries, which are high in sugar
- A whole bunch of cherries, even without obvious pit damage, because of the choking risk
How many cherries can my cat have?
If you decide to offer cherries despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your cat has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: A large amount of crushed pits can release cyanide, causing dilated pupils, difficulty breathing and shock. Call your vet if your cat chewed into cherry pits or ate a large amount.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat cherries?
Because cherries need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many cherries?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should cherries be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making cherries a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Cherries?