Max a Mia Slovensky

Can they eat it?

Can dogs and cats eat Cherries?

DogOnly with care
CatOnly with care

Cherry flesh is not toxic, but the stones, stems and leaves contain cyanide-forming compounds, and stones can cause a blockage.

Why

Amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside) in stones, stems and leaves; stones can obstruct

Signs to watch for

  • vomiting
  • red gums or difficulty breathing (cyanide, rare)
  • signs of blockage (repeated vomiting, not eating)

Good to know

One swallowed stone is usually not an emergency for a medium or large dog, but watch closely; small dogs risk blockage. Offer only pitted flesh, if any.

Sources

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline – My dog ate a cherry pit
  2. AKC – Can dogs eat cherries?

Checked against these sources in October 2026.