Summertime means spending time outside and eating ripe delicious fruit. When snacking on fruit, such as cherries, you may want to share the goodness with your sweet pup. Unfortunately, these treats come with risks. Dogs have been known to swallow cherry pits when others are not paying attention, putting them in severe danger. Continue reading to learn about the hazards of cherries and what to do if your dog eats a cherry pit.
Beware of Cherries
Cherries are a sweet treat that many love to enjoy. While cherries are safe for human consumption, they pose a serious risk to dogs. The main danger of cherries is in the pit, leaves, and stems. These parts contain cyanide, a fast poison that can be lethal. The pits will need to be broken open for the cyanide to be released. Cherry pits can get lodged into the digestive tract, causing blockages in the intestines. Avoid giving your pup a pit-free alternative, such as maraschino cherries, because the high sugar content can make them sick.
Cyanide Poisoning Symptoms
Don’t worry if your puppy manages to swallow a whole cherry. While a single cherry is unlikely to cause poisoning, it’s important to keep an eye on them for any potential negative reactions to the fruit, especially any signs of an intestinal blockage. Potential signs include:
- Vomiting
- Little to no appetite
- Constipation
If your pup has ingested a large number of cherries and potentially broke the pit open, they can be at severe risk for cyanide poisoning. Symptoms include:
- Dilated pupils
- Inflamed gums
- Trouble breathing
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Shock
Treatment
Contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately if your pup has consumed a lot of cherries. Do not wait for symptoms to show and take your dog to the animal hospital so they can receive treatment. Your pup may be administered IV fluids and specific medications to combat cyanide poisoning. If you have further questions or concerns regarding cherries, contact Pet Poison Helpline right away.
