How much blackberries for your cat?
Most guides say "a few pieces". Enter your cat's weight and get the actual daily ceiling, worked out from blackberries's calories and the 10%-of-daily-calories treat rule vets use.
Assumes a healthy, neutered adult at a stable weight, and that this is their only treat that day. Puppies, pregnant, very active or unwell pets need different amounts — ask your vet.
Why this verdict for cats
Blackberries are non-toxic for cats as an occasional tiny treat.
Blackberries are one of the better fruit treats you can offer a dog — low in sugar for a berry, high in fibre and antioxidants, and small enough to need no preparation at all.
How much is safe?
A few berries for a small dog, a small handful for a larger one, a couple of times a week. Like raspberries they contain trace natural xylitol, which is not a practical concern at treat portions but is a reason to keep servings modest. Cats may take one out of curiosity; it will not harm them.
What happens if a cat eats too much?
Fibre-driven diarrhoea and an upset stomach, and a temporarily alarming but harmless darkening of the stool.
How to serve it safely
Wash them well, especially wild-picked ones, and serve whole or lightly mashed for small dogs. Frozen works nicely. Avoid blackberry jam, pie filling and anything sweetened.
🐾 Make it a healthy treat
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog eat blackberries picked from a hedge?
The fruit itself is the same, so yes — but wash them, be sure of what the plant is, and be aware that roadside brambles may carry pesticide or exhaust residue. The thorny canes are also worth keeping a nose away from.
My dog's poop went black after berries — should I worry?
If they ate a good number of dark berries, that is likely the cause and it passes within a day. Genuinely black, tarry stool without that explanation means digested blood and needs a vet.
More fruits for cats
By the CanMyPet Editorial Team · Reviewed against ASPCA Animal Poison Control, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Pet Poison Helpline · Last updated July 31, 2026.
Sources
- ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- American Kennel Club — Dog Nutrition
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poison List