🚨 If symptoms are present — go to emergency vet NOW. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7)
Cherry Pits Toxicity in Dogs
Cherry pits (and those of related stone fruits) contain amygdalin, which releases hydrogen cyanide when the pit is crushed or chewed. The cyanide risk is compounded by a physical hazard: whole pits that are swallowed can lodge in the intestines, causing a life-threatening obstruction. Cherry flesh in small amounts is not toxic, but the pit, stem, and leaves all pose hazards.
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⚡ Immediate Actions
- 1If the pit was chewed: this is a cyanide emergency — go to an emergency vet immediately.
- 2Call ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.
- 3If the pit was swallowed whole: monitor for obstruction signs (repeated vomiting, lethargy) for 48 hours and call your vet.
- 4Do not induce vomiting for whole pits — the pit could lodge in the esophagus on the way back up.
- 5Bring the cherry pit or packaging if possible.
Symptoms & Timeline
Cyanide signs (if pit was chewed, 30–60 minutes)
- Bright-red or cherry-red gums
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid breathing progressing to labored breathing
- Vomiting
- Muscle tremors
- Collapse
Intestinal obstruction (if pit swallowed whole, 12–72 hours)
- Vomiting repeatedly after eating
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy and abdominal pain
- Straining to defecate
- Distended abdomen
ℹ️ Safe Amount Context
Cherry flesh in small amounts (1–2 cherries, pit removed) is not toxic. Any amount of pit, stem, or leaf should be considered hazardous.
How Cherry Pits (Cyanogenic Pits & Leaves) Affects Dogs
Cherry pits contain amygdalin. When chewed, beta-glucosidase enzymes release hydrogen cyanide, which blocks mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase and prevents cells from using oxygen. The cyanide content of cherry pits is higher per gram than apple seeds. Swallowed whole pits do not release significant cyanide but can cause mechanical bowel obstruction in dogs, especially small breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog swallowed a cherry pit whole — will it pass?
Small dogs are at risk for intestinal obstruction. Large dogs may pass a single pit without issue, but monitor closely for vomiting, loss of appetite, or straining over 48 hours. Call your vet — they may recommend an x-ray to confirm the pit's location.
Are maraschino cherries safe for dogs?
Maraschino cherries have the pits removed and the stems taken off, which removes the main cyanide hazard. However, they are soaked in high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors, making them unhealthy for dogs. They should not be given as treats.
What other fruits have toxic pits?
Peaches, plums, apricots, nectarines, and mangoes all have pits that contain amygdalin. The concern is the same: chewed pits release cyanide; swallowed whole pits risk obstruction.
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