Pet emergency
My cat ate Almond 'Nonpareil' — what to do
Step by step
- Take almond 'nonpareil' away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate almond 'nonpareil' — FAQ
Is almond 'nonpareil' poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Almond 'Nonpareil' (Prunus dulcis 'Nonpareil') as toxic to cats. ASPCA classifies Prunus species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Foliage, stems, and seeds/kernels contain cyanogenic glycosides (amygdalin) that release cyanide; clinical signs include brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, panting, and difficulty breathing. Keep pets from prunings, wilted leaves, and fallen nuts.
How serious is it if my cat ate almond 'nonpareil'?
Almond 'Nonpareil' is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. ASPCA classifies Prunus species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Foliage, stems, and seeds/kernels contain cyanogenic glycosides (amygdalin) that release cyanide; clinical signs include brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, panting, and difficulty breathing. Keep pets from prunings, wilted leaves, and fallen nuts. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep almond 'nonpareil' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is almond 'nonpareil' toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Almond 'Nonpareil' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide