Cats
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
cat safety reference
Is Jerusalem Cherry safe for cats?
Solanum pseudocapsicum
Jerusalem Cherry is an ornamental shrub known for its bright, berry-like fruits that contain toxic solanine alkaloids. Due to the presence of these compounds, all parts of the plant are considered harmful if ingested by pets.
Jerusalem CherryMadeira Winter CherrySolanum pseudocapsicumWinter Cherry
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats can be seriously poisoned by Jerusalem cherry — the bright orange-red berries are particularly attractive and especially toxic. ASPCA attributes the toxicity to solanine, with significant ingestions risking GI ulceration, seizures, and shock. NC State Extension confirms the alkaloid toxicity in fruits and leaves.
What to watch for
Gastrointestinal signs first: vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and abdominal discomfort (NC State Extension). With larger ingestions or progression, watch for depression, respiratory depression, seizures, possible GI ulceration, and shock (ASPCA).
Time window
Exact onset and duration are not well documented.
When to call the vet
Call immediately if any berries or foliage may have been eaten — Jerusalem cherry's small ripe berries are especially attractive to cats and the most concentrated source of toxin. Seek emergency care for any seizures, severe vomiting, or weakness. Contact your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
Sources: NC State Extension, ASPCA (no home first-aid guidance).
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, and in severe cases, central nervous system depression or seizures.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the berries or foliage can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Solanum pseudocapsicum is a poisonous plant that produces orange-red berries that are toxic if ingested.
Questions about Jerusalem Cherry
Is Jerusalem Cherry toxic to cats?
Yes, Jerusalem Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is toxic to cats. All parts of the plant contain solanine alkaloids, making the berries, foliage, and stems harmful if ingested.
What symptoms will a cat show after eating Jerusalem Cherry?
Cats that ingest Jerusalem Cherry typically show vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and excessive salivation. In more severe cases, ingestion can progress to central nervous system depression or seizures, particularly with larger amounts of berries or foliage.
What should I do if my cat ate a Jerusalem Cherry berry?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear. The small, brightly colored berries are especially attractive to cats and are the most concentrated source of toxin. Seek emergency care right away if your cat shows seizures, severe vomiting, or sudden weakness.
Which part of the Jerusalem Cherry plant is most dangerous to cats?
The ripe berries pose the greatest risk because they are the most concentrated source of solanine alkaloids and are especially attractive to cats due to their bright color and small size. However, the foliage is also toxic, so all parts of the plant should be kept out of reach.
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