Fruits
Avocado (Pit and Skin): Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Dogs are relatively resistant to the toxin in avocado, so the bigger danger is the pit itself, which can lodge in the throat or gut and cause a life-threatening blockage.
Toxic principle: persin (a fungicidal toxin in avocado leaves, skin, and pit); primary hazard in dogs is mechanical obstruction from the pit
Watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- choking or gagging if the pit is swallowed
- straining or inability to pass stool with intestinal blockage
Cats rarely show the persin toxicity that affects birds and horses, but the pit, skin, and stem still pose a real choking and obstruction risk.
Toxic principle: persin (a fungicidal toxin in avocado leaves, skin, and pit); rarely causes systemic toxicity in cats
Watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- choking or gagging if the pit is swallowed
- straining or inability to pass stool with intestinal blockage
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.