What are the symptoms if a cat eats Grapes / Raisins / Currants?

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Lethargy, Weakness, or Depression, Increased Thirst (Polydipsia) and Increased Urination (Polyuria), Oliguria (Decreased Urine) or Anuria (No Urine Production), Poor Appetite or Refusal to Eat

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✕ Toxic

Grapes / Raisins / Currants

Q: Is Grapes / Raisins / Currants toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants are highly dangerous for cats. There is no known safe amount. Even one grape or a few raisins may be enough to cause a serious problem in some cats. The exact toxin is still not fully confirmed, though tartaric acid is one leading suspect. The main danger is sudden kidney injury. Because cats react unpredictably, a small amount can be risky even if another cat once seemed fine after eating more. Early signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, not eating, belly pain, or increased thirst. Kidney problems can develop later. If your cat eats any grape, raisin, sultana, or currant, contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately instead of waiting for symptoms.

Vitis vinifera

Grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants are highly dangerous for cats. There is no known safe amount. Even one grape or a few raisins may be enough to cause a serious problem in some cats. The exact toxin is still not fully confirmed, though tartaric acid is one leading suspect. The main danger is sudden kidney injury. Because cats react unpredictably, a small amount can be risky even if another cat once seemed fine after eating more. Early signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, not eating, belly pain, or increased thirst. Kidney problems can develop later. If your cat eats any grape, raisin, sultana, or currant, contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately instead of waiting for symptoms.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: likely tartaric acid or related compound; exact mechanism still under investigation

Mechanism: direct nephrotoxicity — causes acute tubular injury leading to kidney failure within 24–72 hours

Symptoms Phase 1 (within 6h): vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy; Phase 2 (24–72h): acute kidney failure with decreased urination, loss of appetite, weakness

Raisins and dried currants are more dangerous by weight due to concentration; currants (Zante) are similarly toxic

Any grape or raisin ingestion warrants immediate veterinary attention — do not wait for symptoms

Potentially Toxic Parts

Root

Stem

Leaf

Fruit

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Oliguria (Decreased Urine) or Anuria (No Urine Production)

Renal · 12–72 hours (As the condition worsens).

Vomiting

Gastrointestinal · Within 12 hours of ingestion.

Lethargy, Weakness, or Depression

Neurological · 12–24 hours.

Increased Thirst (Polydipsia) and Increased Urination (Polyuria)

Renal · Initial 24 hours.

Poor Appetite or Refusal to Eat

Gastrointestinal · 12–24 hours.

Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · 12–24 hours (Often follows the initial vomiting).

Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.