§ Toxic plants · Rosaceae · Checked Oct 2026
Is cherry laurel toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Plant Smart rates its effects Severe, level 3 of 4.
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§ 010 · Signs
What to watch for
Signs include dilated pupils, trouble breathing, panting and shock. Signs can start within hours; some take a day or more to show.
§ 020 · If it happened
What to do if your pet ate it
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline straight away, even if your pet seems fine: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours and charge a fee. Have the plant or a photo of it to hand, and don’t make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
§ 030 · Same family
Other Rosaceae plants toxic to pets
Cherry laurel belongs to the Rosaceae family. ASPCA lists these relatives too.
§ 040 · Questions
Questions about cherry laurel and pets
Is cherry laurel toxic to cats?
Yes. ASPCA lists cherry laurel as toxic to cats.
Is cherry laurel toxic to dogs?
Yes. ASPCA lists cherry laurel as toxic to dogs.
What happens if my pet eats cherry laurel?
Signs include dilated pupils, trouble breathing, panting and shock. Plant Smart rates it Severe, level 3 of 4.
What should I do if my pet ate it?
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away, even before signs appear: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Both charge a fee. Have the plant, or a photo of it, to hand.