PlantLegitIs American plum toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
- DogsToxic (ASPCA)
- CatsToxic (ASPCA)
- People & kidsMedium poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (6)
- ASPCA plant entry: Cherry (Prunus spp.) – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to cats – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Prunus americana plant profile, poison fields – NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Poison Help line 1-800-222-1222 – U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
- Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 – ASPCA
- Person or child: call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 (free, confidential, 24/7; HRSA Poison Help).
- Dog, cat or other pet: call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a consultation fee may apply; ASPCA) or your veterinarian.
- Trouble breathing, seizures or collapse: call 911.
Details
ASPCA lists Cherry (Prunus spp.) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats. ASPCA's entry covers the whole genus Prunus spp., not Prunus americana by name.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): The pits contain cyanide compounds, which are poisonous. If a couple of pits are accidentally swallowed, it will not cause poisoning. The pits are more poisonous if they are ground up/crushed or the seeds are chewed. Fruit that has not been pitted should not be blended into a smoothie. Symptoms include Gasping, weakness, excitement, pupil dilation, spasms, convulsions, coma, respiratory failure.
Poisonous parts: Leaves Seeds Stems.
Toxic compound: Cyanogenic glycosides.
This page summarizes published lists. It is not medical or veterinary advice. Keep plants away from young children and pets, and call the numbers above with any concern. Checked 2026-10-14.