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Is Japanese Apricot toxic to cats?

Prunus mume

Toxic to cats

Yes — japanese apricot is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Prunus mume belongs to the genus the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (e.g. Apricot, Plum, Cherry). The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in the stems, leaves and seeds (kernels), most dangerous when wilting. Signs include brick-red gums, dilated pupils, panting, difficulty breathing and shock. Keep prunings and pits away from pets.

What to do if your cat ate japanese apricot

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move japanese apricot out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of japanese apricot to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten japanese apricot, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is japanese apricot toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is japanese apricot toxic to cats?

Yes — japanese apricot is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Prunus mume belongs to the genus the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (e.g. Apricot, Plum, Cherry). The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in the stems, leaves and seeds (kernels), most dangerous when wilting. Signs include brick-red gums, dilated pupils, panting, difficulty breathing and shock. Keep prunings and pits away from pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats japanese apricot?

Prunus mume belongs to the genus the ASPCA lists as toxic to dogs, cats and horses (e.g. Apricot, Plum, Cherry). The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in the stems, leaves and seeds (kernels), most dangerous when wilting. Signs include brick-red gums, dilated pupils, panting, difficulty breathing and shock. Keep prunings and pits away from pets. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to japanese apricot.

What should I do if my cat ate japanese apricot?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is japanese apricot toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Japanese Apricot is toxic to dogs as well. See the full japanese apricot pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to japanese apricot?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full japanese apricot pet-safety