Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

My cat ate one single raw elderberry that fell on the floor — is that a toxic amount for a 4 kg adult cat?

Cats · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, even one raw elderberry is toxic and not safe for a cat. All parts of the raw plant, including the berries, contain cyanogenic glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other serious symptoms. The risk is real regardless of the small amount. Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 right away for advice, and watch your cat closely for any signs of illness.

Elderberry — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Cats · full breakdown on the linked food page

Raw berries, leaves, bark and stems all contain cyanogenic glycosides and cause vomiting and diarrhoea. Never feed.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Elderberry should not be given to cats at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Raw animal protein carries Salmonella and E. coli risk, and those bacteria can spread to the people in the household too.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Elderberry food facts page.

Open the full food page: Elderberry food facts →