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Is Ornamental Plum 'Nigra' toxic to cats?

Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra'

Toxic to cats

Yes — ornamental plum 'nigra' 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. ASPCA lists Prunus (plum/cherry) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The leaves, stems and seeds (pits) contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide, especially when wilting; signs include brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, panting, laboured breathing and shock. Keep pruned wilting clippings and fallen fruit pits away from pets.

What to do if your cat ate ornamental plum 'nigra'

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move ornamental plum 'nigra' 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 ornamental plum 'nigra' to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is ornamental plum 'nigra' toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is ornamental plum 'nigra' toxic to cats?

Yes — ornamental plum 'nigra' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Prunus (plum/cherry) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The leaves, stems and seeds (pits) contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide, especially when wilting; signs include brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, panting, laboured breathing and shock. Keep pruned wilting clippings and fallen fruit pits away from pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats ornamental plum 'nigra'?

ASPCA lists Prunus (plum/cherry) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The leaves, stems and seeds (pits) contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide, especially when wilting; signs include brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, panting, laboured breathing and shock. Keep pruned wilting clippings and fallen fruit 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 ornamental plum 'nigra'.

What should I do if my cat ate ornamental plum 'nigra'?

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 ornamental plum 'nigra' toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Ornamental Plum 'Nigra' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full ornamental plum 'nigra' pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to ornamental plum 'nigra'?

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 ornamental plum 'nigra' pet-safety