Well, we all know that cherries are delicious snippets to us humans. Here, you may be wondering if cats can eat cherries. In short, yes, but the whole truth and nothing but? There are certain parts of the cherry fruit that present great danger, albeit not in the fleshy part itself.

Are Cherries Safe for Cats?

Let’s dive a bit deeper. While the cherry flesh itself may be fine, there will still be some portion of pit and stem in that fruit (and don’t forget any picks from leaves that were not washed off might get pulled into those first batches. They can release cyanide in the body when eaten, which comes from this form of cyanogenic glycosides situated within these cherry parts.

Cyanide is a poison that can kill even in small doses. Curious cats might not understand what is safe versus anything interesting at first glance, so take that into consideration, too. Therefore, as long as the fleshy part of a cherry is not dangerous, it should always be considered that they could choke on stems or accidentally swallow a pit in their underdeveloped oral systems.

How Many Cherries Can a Cat Eat?

Even if you feel like giving that delicious cherry to your cat, it is better not to. However, if your cat sneaks a bite of cherry flesh, you should not worry. Their body can generally handle a small amount of it, but this is not something that should be incorporated as part of their daily diet. Simply put, the only safe number of cherries for your cat is zero.

Do Cats Like Cherries or Their Taste?

This is because, like their wild ancestors (and unlike dogs), cats are obligate carnivores; they have taste buds that evolved to appreciate the meat more than fructose-laden fruit. Cats do not taste sugar like humans. They lack the receptor for sweetness, and therefore, cherries really aren’t going to be all that appetizing.

In the event that your cat does want to take a lick, it is unlikely because they are missing blackberries but more likely due to their nosiness towards something new. However, each cat is unique, and some will be attracted to its texture or smell.

Can Cats Have Cherries All the Time?

Cherries take a fair number of lives each year, so reliability-wise, it is safer to avoid them altogether. There isn’t a reason for cherries to be included in your cat’s diet (even as an occasional treat). This is one reason that higher protein and lower carbohydrate diets (the composition of most wet foods) are more in tune with their dietary needs. We have many more treats that are safer and better suited to curb your cat’s curiosity or perhaps their hunger without all the risk.

Dangers of Feeding Cats Cherries

Cherries can cause a lot of health problems in your pet cat, especially if they are eating the more dangerous parts. Some valid risks that you should remind yourself of are:

• Cyanide Poisoning: As stated, the cherry pits as well as stems and leaves all contain cyanogenic glycosides. Ingesting these causes cyanide to be released in the body, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dilated pupils and bright red gums not to mention death.

• Ingestion risks: Being small, cherry pits are miniature choking risk. While dangerous to cats who may swallow the pit leading to obstructions of their throat or digestive tract.

• Flesh: While not toxic, the flesh of a cherry leads cats to digestive upset. They are not used to processing fruit so much, and the intake of cherries might have resulted in them facing stomach problems like diarrhea or vomiting.

What About Cherry Yogurt or Cherry Ice Cream?

Cherry-flavoured foods such as yogurt or ice cream may seem like safer bets, but not exactly. Some cherry-flavoured things contain fake flavours, not to mention sugar and even sweeteners like xylitol, which is VERSION really hazardous to cats.

Dairy is another common no-go for cats since most are lactose intolerant, and consuming even a small quantity can cause stomach upset with symptoms like diarrhea or gas. It may be hard to resist feeding a small spoonful of cherry yogurt or ice cream, but it is advised against doing so. There are a number of treats available that have been made just for cats and their good health.

So, can cats eat cherries? The safest answer is no. The flesh of cherry might not be toxic, but because they are dangerous once mashed along with the other parts of this fruit, and given that they can cause digestive upset, they are a lousy choice as a feline snack.

If your cat eats a small piece of cherry by mistake, keep an eye on them and call the vet if you have any concerns. When it comes to your pet’s health, better safe than sorry! Leave the cherries and anything else not intended for your cat’s diet; keep them healthy, happy, & safe.

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