Why Are Cherries Harmful for Pets?

Cherry pits, stems, leaves, and bark contain amygdalin that releases cyanide gas when chewed, blocking cellular oxygen use and causing dilated pupils, rapid/shallow breathing, brick-red gums, shock, seizures, coma, or death within hours. Flesh low-risk but pits choking hazard. Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, tortoises at risk. Never feed any part; induce vomiting if recent and oxygenate.