Toxicity to pets

All parts of the Chokecherry except the soft fruit or berry contain cyanide-containing compounds and enzymes. When the plant material is chewed or damaged (e.g., frost, crushing) free cyanide can be released triggering cyanide poisoning when ingested. Cyanide reduces the body’s ability to process oxygen at a cellular level resulting in clinical signs including vomiting, drooling, gasping, collapse, seizure, and death. The occurrence of cyanide poisoning from chokecherry ingestion is higher in livestock – animals that consume large amounts and chew their food well – vs. companion animals.