Can Dogs Eat Currants?
Find out if Currants is safe for dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Currants
The word “currants” can refer to two very different fruits, and both should be kept from pets. Zante or Corinth currants are small dried grapes and carry the same kidney-failure risk as raisins—avoid entirely. Black and red currants (Ribes) are a different fruit, but their safety for dogs and cats is not well established, and they can cause gastrointestinal upset. Because of the uncertainty and the risk of confusion, do not feed currants to pets.
Is Currants Safe for Dogs?
True currants (*Ribes*) are not the same as grape currants, but both can be dangerous. Zante/Corinth currants are dried grapes and cause kidney failure like raisins. Fresh black/red currants may cause GI upset; their kidney risk in dogs is unclear, so avoid them.
Is Currants Safe for Cats?
Zante/Corinth currants are dried grapes and can cause kidney failure. Fresh black/red currants may cause GI upset; avoid sharing.
Symptoms to Watch For
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- decreased urination
What If My Pet Ate Currants?
Contact your veterinarian immediately, especially if the pet ate dried Zante/Corinth currants (which are raisins) or a large amount of any currant. Monitor for vomiting, lethargy, or decreased urination.
Safe Alternatives
Sources
- ASPCA
- Pet Poison Helpline
- Cortinovis & Caloni, Front Vet Sci (2016)
- MSD Veterinary Manual — Grape, Raisin, and Tamarind Toxicosis
- PubMed — Toxicosis with grapes or raisins causing AKI in dogs (PMID 32893916)
- Cornell Riney Canine Health Center — Grape and Raisin Toxicity
- ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.