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Is Prunus serrula toxic to cats?

Prunus serrula

Toxic to cats

Yes — prunus serrula 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. The genus Prunus (cherry) is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in stems, leaves and seeds/pits, which release cyanide; signs include difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, panting and shock. Keep prunings and fallen material away from pets.

What to do if your cat ate prunus serrula

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

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

Is prunus serrula toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is prunus serrula toxic to cats?

Yes — prunus serrula is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The genus Prunus (cherry) is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in stems, leaves and seeds/pits, which release cyanide; signs include difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, panting and shock. Keep prunings and fallen material away from pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats prunus serrula?

The genus Prunus (cherry) is ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cyanogenic glycosides in stems, leaves and seeds/pits, which release cyanide; signs include difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, panting and shock. Keep prunings and fallen material 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 prunus serrula.

What should I do if my cat ate prunus serrula?

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 prunus serrula toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Prunus serrula is toxic to dogs as well. See the full prunus serrula pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to prunus serrula?

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 prunus serrula pet-safety