Everyone knows that fruits are vital for maintaining good health. But can cats eat fruit, too? While cats don’t need fruits to be healthy, adding them to your pet’s diet will provide additional vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. If you care for your feline’s well-being, it’s crucial to know what fruits cats can eat and which can be dangerous.
We’ll tell you everything you need to know about feeding your cat fruits snacks:
- Vegetarian Diet and Cats
- What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
- Can Cats Eat Dried Fruit?
- How Much Fruit Can a Cat Have?
- How to Feed Fruits to a Cat
- Fruits to Avoid
- Safety Tips
Vegetarian Diet and Cats
People choose to be vegetarians for many reasons, including animal welfare concerns or a wish to improve their overall health. But is the vegetarian diet safe for cats? While cats can survive without meat, they’re strictly carnivores and have precise nutritional needs.
The most significant dangers of a vegetarian or vegan diet for cats include the risk of vitamin deficiency and imbalance of certain fatty acids and proteins. That’s why you should think very carefully before putting your pet on a vegetarian diet and get advice from a qualified veterinary nutritionist.
What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
So can cats eat fruit? The good news is they can enjoy some fruits. Aside from checking the list of fruits you can give to your cat, you should also consider how your pet responds to certain fruits. Let’s check our list of fruits and find out what’s safe for cats:
- Apples
They’re a tasty and nutritious snack for people, but can cats have apples? Veterinarians and owners agree that the safest fruit for a cat is the apple. It contains vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, magnesium, calcium and improves digestion. Just remember to remove the core and seeds as they contain cyanide.
- Apricots
This fleshy and compact fruit is a source of beta-carotene. It provides 50% of the recommended vitamin A and has anti-cancer properties, making it a healthy alternative. Feed your cat with apricots in small quantities without the seeds.
- Bananas
Can cats eat bananas safely? The potassium in bananas will help your cat’s heart and kidneys, so this fruit can be an essential part of their diet. Also, bananas provide a sense of satiety, which can help overweight cats cope better with their diet. The only problem is that the fruit is high in sugars and carbohydrates, so we recommend giving cats only small banana slices.
- Blueberries
They have many benefits for humans, but can cats eat blueberries, too? Yes, blueberries are a low-calorie treat that’s suitable for felines. They prevent cellular aging and urine infections as they’re rich in vitamin C and flavonoids. We recommend feeding them to cats in very small quantities and not using them as a meal replacement.
- Cantaloupe
Can cats eat cantaloupe? Yes, but in moderation. Fresh cantaloupe is an excellent treat for your cat. It’s rich in fiber and about 90% water, so adding some to your pet’s diet can provide hydration and support healthy digestion.
- Cranberries
Cranberries contain various antioxidants that may help boost your cat’s immune health and decrease inflammation. You can feed your cat raw, cooked, or dried cranberries in moderation.
- Mangoes
Can cats eat mango? They can. Known as “the king of fruits,” mango is safe and very healthy for cats as it contains countless nutrients.
- Oranges
It can be tempting to give your cat some orange slices, but can cats eat oranges? The short answer is “No,” as oranges are toxic to cats. Even a tiny amount is enough to make your cat sick. The essential oils in this fruit are terrible for your pet.
- Pear
Can cats eat pears? Yes, cats can have pears! They’re a healthy feline treat in moderation. Feed only ripe pears to your cat by removing the core and seeds and cutting them into small pieces.
- Pineapple
Pineapple is full of nutrients, so you might be wondering — can cats eat pineapple? Raw pineapple is a great fruit snack for your cat in small quantities. But you shouldn’t give canned pineapple to your cat since it’s usually excessively high in sugar due to the added fruit syrup.
- Raspberries
You can safely give raspberries to your cats. They’re a great source of nutrients. That said, raspberries contain a small amount of xylitol, so you should only give them to your pet in small quantities.
- Strawberries
Can cats have strawberries? They’re full of healthy nutrients and are one of the best dental treats for cats. Still, like any fruit, you should serve them in moderation.
- Watermelon
Everybody loves watermelons, but can cats eat watermelon? Yes, the fruit is safe for them as long as you don’t let them eat the seeds or the rind.
Can Cats Eat Dried Fruit?
Generally, dried fruits are safe for your cat if you only give them an occasional treat. Dried fruits, like mango or apricot, are a quick source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for your pet.
But not all dried fruits are safe for cats. For example, raisins or dried oranges may cause them health issues. Also, always ensure the fruits you’re giving to your cat have been pitted.
Keep in mind that several brands tend to sneak in extra sugar and artificial preservatives. It’s crucial to feed your cat only entirely natural dried fruit, so don’t forget to check the ingredients.
How Much Fruit Can a Cat Have?
The daily feline diet doesn’t require fruits. But can cats eat fruit, and how much?
Vets state that the daily cat diet can include up to 10% fruits, but it’s unnecessary. If you’re giving your cat fruit and other treats, make sure you control the amount so that you don’t exceed the acceptable daily intake.
Avoid giving your cat fruits with a high level of fiber or sugar. Too much fiber might cause stomach issues, and too much sugar might make your cat feel queasy. Also, owners of cats with diabetes should oversee their pets’ sugar intake.
How to Feed Fruits Safe for Cats
You can feed your cat raw fruits but remove the pits, seeds, rinds, and inedible skins. Also, cut them into small pieces or thin slices to prevent choking.
The simplest and most convenient way of adding fruits to your cat’s diet is simply giving them along with your cat’s favorite snack. You can make a puree of fresh fruits or add the chunks on the top of your pet’s meal.
You can also find tasty treats with fruits in pet stores. Many owners choose Fruitables Crunchy Cat Treats on Amazon with all-natural chicken flavor.
Have you thought about combining fruits and veggies for your cat in a smoothie? Wait, can cats eat vegetables? Like fruits, they can be a safe and healthy treat. You can blend them with water and feed your cat a homemade smoothie to ensure it’s getting all the nutrients.
Fruits to Avoid
So what fruits can cats eat? Apples, apricots, and bananas are among the safe choices. But what fruits should you avoid giving to your cat? Here are a few that are toxic:
- Grapes and Raisins
Even a small amount of this sweet and sour fruit can cause irreversible kidney failure. Scientists have yet to find the toxic grape components for cats.
- Citrus Fruits.
You should keep all citrus plants and fruits away from your cat, including oranges, lemons, grapefruits, limes, and pomelos. They contain limonene, essential oils, and high amounts of acid, all of which can be dangerous to your pet.
- Cherries.
Your cat might like this red fruit, but cherries’ stems, leaves, and pits contain a chemical compound called cyanide. It’s incredibly toxic and potentially fatal. If swallowed, the pits can cause intestinal obstruction. If inhaled, they can lead to choking.
Safety Tips
Choose only fruits safe for cats and start with very small portions. Here are some safety tips to minimize the risks and keep your pet safe:
- Before feeding your cat any delicious fruit, you must wash and pit it thoroughly. It’s best to keep your cat away from stems, leaves, and seeds. They can cause digestive issues or choking.
- Give fruits to your cat in moderation to prevent the sugar in them from affecting your pet’s health and weight. Once or twice a week is enough.
- Introduce each new fruit to your pet in a small amount. Then, keep an eye out for any digestive problems (vomiting, diarrhea, constipation) or an allergic reaction (skin rashes, redness, itching, sneezing).
Conclusion
Can cats eat fruit, and which ones are good for them?
Most fruits aren’t inherently bad for your furry companion. They can be a good source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. While fruits aren’t necessary, if your cat is in good health and not overweight, a small amount alongside a complete quality meal could be an excellent way to introduce some variety into your cat’s diet.
