Is Christmas Cherry Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Jerusalem Cherry, Winter Cherry, Madeira Winter Cherry, Solanum pseudocapsicum · Solanum pseudocapsicum
What makes it toxic
Solanine and related glycoalkaloids throughout the plant, concentrated in the berries and leaves. They irritate the GI tract and in meaningful doses affect the heart and central nervous system.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain within hours; larger ingestions add lethargy, wobbliness, dilated pupils, slowed heart rate and seizures.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove all berries and plant material, and call your vet promptly. Any confirmed berry swallowing — or any neurological signs — warrants an immediate clinic visit.
Common questions
Are the decorative berries worse than the leaves?
Yes. The small orange-red berries carry the highest alkaloid load and are the part pets most often eat, which makes this plant unusually risky for its size.
Is Christmas cherry related to deadly nightshade?
It is in the same nightshade family (Solanaceae) as tomatoes and deadly nightshade, sharing solanine-type alkaloids. Treat every part as unsafe.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.