Chokecherry

Yes, chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) is potentially toxic to cats. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, particularly concentrated in the leaves and seeds, which can release cyanide when ingested — making this a medical emergency, not a wait-and-see situation.

Symptoms include dilated pupils, bright red or brick-red gums, panting or labored breathing, vomiting, weakness, and collapse. Cyanide poisoning can progress to seizures and shock rapidly — often within 15–60 minutes of meaningful ingestion — and may appear well before typical GI signs.

Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Any change in breathing, gum color, or sudden collapse is a 911-level emergency. Time is critical because cyanide acts within minutes to an hour.

The leaves and seeds are the most dangerous parts, as they contain the highest concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide upon ingestion. The dark berries are also a concern because cats may consume the seeds inside them.

Yes, chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) is toxic to dogs. The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides that convert to cyanide upon ingestion, making it potentially dangerous regardless of which part is consumed — berries, leaves, or twigs.

Signs typically appear within 15–60 minutes of ingestion and include excessive drooling, vomiting, rapid or labored breathing, bright-red gums, dilated pupils, weakness, and staggering — escalating to seizures, collapse, and shock. Larger dogs that chewed multiple twigs or pits face higher risk.

Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. Cyanide poisoning is treatable but only if care starts fast; any change in breathing, gum color, or sudden weakness should be treated as an emergency.

Chokecherry leaves, bark, and pits contain cyanogenic glycosides that the body converts to hydrogen cyanide after ingestion. Cyanide prevents cells from using oxygen, which is why affected dogs show breathing distress and bright-red gums (blood stays oxygenated but tissues can't use it) and can decline rapidly.