Why?
The cherry pit contains amygdalin, which releases cyanide when crunched, and the stems and leaves contain it too. A pit swallowed whole can get stuck in the intestines of an animal this small. The flesh isn't toxic, but with such a small fruit it's hard to share without a pit risk, so skip it.
How much?
No amount is recommended. Keep bowls of cherries out of reach, and pick up any pits and stems that fall on the floor.
The risks
- Pit, stem and leaves contain cyanogenic compounds
- Swallowed pit: intestinal blockage
- Bright red gums, dilated pupils, trouble breathing
- Vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite
Your cat ate some: what now?
If your cat swallowed or crunched a pit, or chewed stems or leaves, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms. Don't try to make your cat vomit yourself. If your cat only licked a bit of pitted flesh, watch for 24 to 48 hours.
Better options
If it's small round fruit that catches your cat's eye, two or three blueberries are safe. For a real treat, a small piece of plain cooked chicken is even better.
Common questions
My cat swallowed a cherry pit, what should I do?
A pit swallowed whole releases little cyanide, but it can block the gut, and if it was crunched the poisoning risk goes up. Call your vet without waiting, and watch for vomiting, loss of appetite or belly pain.
What about maraschino cherries?
Skip them. They're pitted, but soaked in sugary syrup with added coloring, nothing a cat should eat.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.