Cherry
Prunus spp. · Rosaceae
How it looks
The Cherry is a deciduous tree characterized by toothed oval leaves and white or pale-pink five-petaled flowers that bloom densely along the branches in spring. In summer it bears small round red or black fruits on the branches. Height 16-66 ft (5-20 m).
Caution — broken branches are the most toxic
The stems, leaves, and seeds of cherry trees contain cyanide, and a cut branch is at its most toxic while it wilts. If swallowed it can turn the mucous membranes brick red, dilate the pupils, and bring on difficulty breathing or shock.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Symptoms
- Brick red mucous membranes, Dilated pupils, Difficulty breathing, Shock
- Onset (typical course)
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
Guide for parents
Cherry trees come into the home as cut branches during blossom season. The parts ASPCA names are the stems, leaves, and seeds, so a branch you brought home for the flowers deserves the same caution.
The plant grows more toxic as it wilts. Take blossom branches out of the vase once the leaves begin to droop, and sweep up fallen leaves and twigs the same day.
If you suspect your cat has eaten some, check the gums and the inside of the eyelids. Brick red colour, dilated pupils, or laboured breathing mean you should call your vet immediately.
Details
- Scientific name
- Prunus spp.
- Common name
- Cherry
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Toxic parts
- Stems, Leaves, Seeds
- Compounds
- Cyanogenic glycosides
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Rosaceae
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