Is Cherry Laurel Toxic to Cats?

Prunus laurocerasus

Cherry laurel leaves and stones contain cyanogenic glycosides, which release hydrogen cyanide when the plant tissue is damaged by chewing. Hedges are cut across Britain every year, and the clippings are the risk.

The hedge is dense and low, which makes it attractive to cats as cover — and while they are in it, they are surrounded by toxic leaves.

Which parts are dangerous

• leaves
• stems
• fruit stones

What to watch for in the UK

• The default front-garden hedge in much of suburban Britain.
• Hedge trimmings pile up on grass and paths — clear them promptly.
• Wilted leaves are more toxic than fresh ones.
• Gloves when trimming; sap irritates skin.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Phone your vet, especially if wilted leaves were eaten.
2. Take a leaf or photo.
3. Watch for drooling, wobbliness and breathing changes.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).