Growli
Let's go

Pet safety

Is Damson toxic to dogs?

Prunus domestica subsp. insititia

Toxic to dogs

Yes — damson is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA lists Prunus (plum) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Leaves, stems, and stones contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide when chewed, causing panting, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, and shock. The tart ripe flesh is not the hazard — pits and wilted foliage are the danger to grazing pets and livestock.

What to do if your dog ate damson

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

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

Is damson toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is damson toxic to dogs?

Yes — damson is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Prunus (plum) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Leaves, stems, and stones contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide when chewed, causing panting, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, and shock. The tart ripe flesh is not the hazard — pits and wilted foliage are the danger to grazing pets and livestock.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats damson?

The ASPCA lists Prunus (plum) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Leaves, stems, and stones contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide when chewed, causing panting, dilated pupils, bright-red gums, and shock. The tart ripe flesh is not the hazard — pits and wilted foliage are the danger to grazing pets and livestock. 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 dog has had access to damson.

What should I do if my dog ate damson?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog'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 damson toxic to cats too?

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

What is a dog-safe alternative to damson?

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

Full damson pet-safety