Can Dogs Eat Cherries? Is It Safe? (Answered With Alternatives)
Is your dog making those cute and irresistible faces to have cherries? Most of them do that! Just like you, I also had this doubt, ‘Can dogs eat cherries?’ I used to check every single thing before feeding it.
I read somewhere the dog food is the healthiest food for a pup. However, every dog gets attracted to human food, and we as their owner and lover lands in a dilemma, whether to give or not.
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The mind says no, and the heart says yes! So to get you out of this perplexity, I am here with this article that will clear the confusion.
The short is, ‘No, you can’t feed cherries to the dog.’
After reading the answer many questions will arise in the back of your mind like, ‘Why can’t I?’ ‘What’s wrong with that?’ ‘What if a dog eats cherries accidentally?’ and many more.
So first I will answer the basic yet most important question,
Why Can’t Dogs Have Cherries?
Cherries are healthy food containing fiber, antioxidants, Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which are good for dog’s health as well but a cherry’s flesh can make your pooch’s stomach upset. Its stem, pit, and leaves all contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs if consumed in larger quantities.
The ingested pit can cause intestinal obstruction and its stem can result in cyanide poisoning in our lovely pet. Intestinal obstruction can result in a serious problem, and seeing a veterinarian will become necessary. And you definitely wouldn’t want that, right?
Are There Any Alternatives?
I know how tempting a cherry is and it can tempt anyone with its red color and sweet smell. Your dog is one of them only it has been beguiled by the lord of cherry. No matter what it is, there’s a strict ‘NO’ for feeding cherry to your furry friend.
Okay, then what about maraschino cherries? They will be fine, right? They are pit-free.
Sorry, but say No to them as well.
But, why?
Maraschino cherries are not good for dogs, as they have tons of sugar added for sweetness. That can lead to obesity, diabetes, digestive upset, and cavities too. You can feed blueberries to your dog, it has plenty of antioxidants.
Along with the blueberries, you can also offer them peeled and pitted mangoes and apples. Make sure the cores and seeds are removed properly.
Don’t ever provide your dog with canned food, it contains, artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors which cab become the reason for the dog’s upset stomach. A big No to flavored foods as well. Give them dog treats specially made for them. They will be equally happy.
What To Do If Dog Eats the Whole Cherry (With Pit)?
Don’t panic if you saw your dog gulping down a few cherries or a whole bunch of it. What’s done is done, you or me, no one can undo it. So what now?
Should I take it to the vet?
– Well, that’s your choice, you can go for the check and be double sure about the health of your pooch.
Before that read the following,
Accidents are evident, they can happen anytime with anyone. It is okay if your dog eats away one or two cherries. Though this much quantity won’t cause cyanide poising, you should look out for the symptoms for the precautionary measures.
What are the Symptoms of Cyanide Poisoning?
It isn’t necessary you will see the difference right after your dog eats cherries. Its symptoms can develop within 24 hours of the intake. As soon as you realize the situation, take it for the treatment before it gets too late!
Here are the signs you should look for in the dog after it eats cherry:-
- Difficulty in breathing
- Dilated pupils, or
- Bright red gums
If you see it went into the shock, call the vet ASAP!
Look for the Symptoms of Intestinal Blockage:
If you don’t see any signs of cyanide poisoning check for the intestinal blockage’s symptoms. There are chances your lovely four-legged friend will be suffering from intestinal blockage and you won’t even know it.
These are the signs of Intestinal Blockage:
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Less fecal production
Conclusion
As soon as you discover any of the symptoms, consult the doctor, and give it proper medication. Instead of cherries, you can always give it healthy and tasty food. Sometimes being tough is the only option to save your baby from odd situations.
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