Fruit Seeds and Pits

Also known as: apple seeds, cherry pits, peach pits, apricot pits, plum pits

Danger (Avoid)

Apple seeds, cherry pits, peach pits, apricot pits, plum pits — these all contain amygdalin, which breaks down into hydrogen cyanide when chewed and digested. A rabbit chewing through fruit seeds or pits is releasing cyanide directly into their tiny body. The fruit flesh is often safe; the seeds and pits are not.

Quantity

A few chewed apple seeds probably won't produce a lethal dose, but there's no reason to risk it. Larger pits (cherry, peach, apricot) contain more amygdalin per pit. For a rabbit's small body weight, the margin of safety is uncomfortably thin.

Notes

Apple is a common and popular treat for rabbits, which makes apple seeds the most frequent exposure. Always core and seed apples completely before offering them. Cherry pits, peach pits, and apricot pits are larger and more obviously dangerous, but rabbits will gnaw on them if given the chance. Pear seeds also contain amygdalin, though in lower concentrations.

Negative Signs

* Rapid, labored breathing
* Bright red gums (the oxygen is in the blood but cells can't use it)
* Weakness and sudden collapse
* Seizures
* Dilated pupils
* Sudden death in severe cases

FAQ

Q: I've been giving my rabbit apple slices without removing the seeds. Is that dangerous?
A: It can be. Start removing all seeds before offering apple — it takes five seconds and eliminates the risk completely. If your rabbit has been eating seeds regularly without issue, they've been lucky, but don't push it.

Q: My rabbit chewed on a peach pit. Is that worse than apple seeds?
A: Peach pits contain more amygdalin per pit than apple seeds, and the chewing releases it. Call your vet and describe how much of the pit was consumed.

Alternatives

The fruit itself is usually fine in small amounts — just always remove all seeds and pits first. A thin slice of seedless apple, a few blueberries, or a small piece of strawberry are all safe, seed-free options.

Risks & Disclaimer

If your rabbit chewed and swallowed fruit seeds or pits, call your vet immediately. Cyanide poisoning progresses rapidly. If the seeds were swallowed whole without being chewed, the risk is lower since the amygdalin is locked inside the hard seed coat — but a vet call is still warranted.