Fruit is a sweet, healthy treat for humans, and maybe you're curious if you could share your snack with your feline. While your cat might be curious about fruit, biologically speaking, they have no need to consume them.
Fruit is naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories. Many fruits are full of vitamins and minerals essential to health. However, fruits are also high in carbs, in some cases fats, and sugars. In terms of cats nutritional needs, fruit doesn't fare.
Cats are obligate carnivores: obligate, meaning "necessary". Consuming meat is biologically essential for cats—which doesn't leave much if any necessity for fruits. Cats are even unable to taste sweets, so at most fruits could provide small amounts of vitamins for a cat.
We do however understand cats can get their paws on our plates from time to time, and some experts say that fruit can be a substitute treat on occasion. If you decide to give your cat fruit, here's what you need to know. Remember that it's important to connect with your cat's vet before introducing any new foods into their diet.
Prepping fruit for cats
When preparing food for your cat, ensure that portions are small, bite-sized pieces. Check food consistency, paying close attention to any pieces that may be choking hazards. Thoroughly wash fruit before serving, and remember to remove any seeds, leaves, pits, and stems, especially some can be toxic to cats.
Safe fruits for cats
- Apples
- Bananas
- blueberries
- cantaloupe
- strawberries
- seedless watermelon
Toxic fruits for cats
*If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance, call the APCC at (888) 426-4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible (*A consultation fee may apply).
- Grapes (and rasins)
- Citrus (including oranges, tangerines, clementines, grapefruit, lemons, and limes)
- Tomatoes
[#BeginTLDR#]Cats can technically eat fruit, but they really don't need to. And the risk of toxic seeds or misshapen chunks that could lead to choking just makes it not feel like a risk worth taking for most pet parents.[#SplitTLDR#]There are plenty of treats that are healthy for cats—even designed for them.[#SplitTLDR#]If you think your cat may have ingested a potentially toxic substance, call the APCC at (888) 426-4435* or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible[#EndTLDR#]
