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Can Cats Eat Fruits? What Fruits are Cat-Friendly? (Answered)

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Cats are carnivores in nature, so where does that leave fruits? Can cats eat fruits? Are they able to properly digest fruits and reap their benefits?

 

 

We all know that fruits are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. The question that everyone would have at this point is whether cats are able to use the nutrients in fruits or are they better sourced from elsewhere. 

 


Though cats are carnivores, cats can eat fruits so long as they are cut up into small, easily digestible pieces. It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat and should be fed in moderation.

 


Cats do not have sweet taste receptors, which means they are not very interested in fruit in general. That being the case, there are quite a few fruits that a cat can eat in moderation. At the end of the day, cats are carnivores, hence their digestive systems can only tolerate a few bites. 

 

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Can Cats Eat Fruits?

Cats are carnivores, which means their digestive system is mostly accustomed to digesting and processing meat and protein. When it comes to plants, it isn’t easy for your cat to digest the food, which is why it has to be fed in moderation. 

 


Cats can eat fruits, just so long as you aren’t feeding your cat huge chunks of fruit. It isn’t the staple source of nutrients, so you shouldn’t be trying too hard to feed your cat fruits. Some fruits are more easily digested compared to others, while some fruits are completely toxic and should be avoided at all costs. Hence, when feeding your cat fruits, you have to be careful to ensure safety for your feline.

 

 

Yes, fruits are loaded with vitamins and minerals, hence are a good way to source essential nutrients and help to maintain a healthy and strong immune system. Pet treats can often be high in calories, which can lead to gaining weight and obesity. As an alternative, fruits make for a great occasional treat that is healthy, for they don’t contain as many calories. 

 


Though fruits can be a great treat for your cat, you should be certain that the fruit you are feeding your cat is safe to consume. Not all fruits that are safe for humans are safe for cats. Here is a list of fruits that you can feed your cat on an occasional basis and we will highlight the ones that you should look to avoid too. 

 

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Cat-Friendly Fruits

When it comes to fruits, not all fruits are safe to feed your cat. Remember, cats are carnivores, hence have a harder time digesting fruits than humans. Hence, when it comes to fruits, moderation is key. Even if the fruit is considered cat-friendly, you don’t want to overfeed your cat fruits, for this could lead to digestive issues. 

 


Let’s take a deeper look into the types of fruits that a cat can safely consume. 

 


Can Cats Eat Cantaloupe?

Yes, cats can digest cantaloupe quite easily and is a great source of vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre and beta carotene. 

 


Cantaloupes are a sweet fruit that is low in calories. As a result, it is a healthy option for your cat. The smell of cantaloupes usually resembles the scent of proteins in meat, which is why your cat is usually drawn to it. If you are having a hard time feeding your cat fruits, cantaloupe would be your best bet. 

 


When feeding them cantaloupe, you should always seek to avoid the rind. Cut the cantaloupe into small bite-size pieces, so that it is easy for your cat to eat and easier for them to digest. 

 


Can Cats Eat Pineapple?

Yes, pineapple is yet another cat-friendly fruit. It contains high levels of fructose and is loaded with vitamins such as vitamin A, C, B6 and folate. They are also a great source of magnesium and potassium. 

 


The nutrients in pineapple will work to boost your cat’s immune system and will also produce a better outward appearance. The nutrients in pineapples will lead to your cat having improved skin and coat.

 


Folate which is present in pineapples is important for red blood cell formation. This enables healthy cell growth and cardiovascular function, and is a critical nutrient during pregnancy.

 


When it comes to pineapples, you always want to feed your cat fresh pineapples. Avoid feeding them canned pineapples, since it is usually packed with a sugary syrup and may also contain preservatives. 

 


When feeding your cat pineapple, make sure to remove the leaves, thorns and rind completely and cut the fruit into small pieces making it easier for your cat to chew and digest. 

 


 Can Cats Eat Mangos?

Mangos are a cat-friendly sweet fruit that can be a treat for many cats. They are loaded with fibre, vitamin A, vitamin B6 and C. 

 


Vitamin B6 helps to maintain normal amounts of amino acid in the blood and helps to nurture a stronger immune system. The vitamins work to help chemical reactions in the immune system enabling it to function better. Hence, feeding you cat mangos could be a good way to guard them against infections. 

 


You do not want to feed your cat the skin of mangos. Make sure to peel the skin properly and cut the fruit up into small cubes. Do not feed your cat the seed as it could be dangerous and could prove as a choking hazard. 

 


Can Cats Eat Apples?

Yes, apples are considered safe for cats and can be a healthy treat on an occasional basis. Apples are high in calcium, vitamin C, vitamin K and pectin. The skin of apples is especially high in phytonutrients. 

 


Phytonutrients as that found in the apple skin helps to boost immune function and acts as a line of defence against cancer. It also works to improve eye health and can be great for your cat’s heart. It can improve the communication of cells and can even repair DNA damage. 

 


The seeds of apples contain trace amounts of cyanide, hence should be removed before feeding. Even a small amount could be dangerous for your cat, hence, do not feed your cat apples with seeds intact. 

 


Apples are as good for cats as they are for humans. They can reap the same benefits from eating apples and is considered completely safe for your cat. Just make sure to cut the apples into bite-size, small pieces to ensure that it is easy for your cat to chew and digest and remove the seeds. 

 

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 Can Dogs Eat Berries?

Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries are all considered safe for cats. They are high in flavonoids, antioxidants and fibre and contains helpful doses of vitamins E, C, K and A. 

 


Strawberries in particular are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and manganese. However, when it comes to strawberries, you have to ensure that you feed them in small amounts. As a result of this, though strawberries are loaded with nutrients, you are unlikely to notice the benefits in cats due to the fact that they cannot safely consume large amounts of the fruit. 

 


You shouldn’t be feeding your cat large amounts of any fruit. Do not be swayed by the various health benefits and overfeed your cat fruits. Fruits are best left as an occasional treat and may lead to digestive complications if overfed. 

 


When feeding your cat berries, just make sure to remove the stems and leaves and wash them properly. You want to cut the berries into small bite-size pieces. Feeding them the whole fruit without chopping it could lead to a choking hazard. Hence, always ensure that you chop the fruit into small pieces which is easy for your cat to chew and swallow. 

 


Can Cats Eat Watermelon?

Watermelon can be a great summer day treat for your cat and is considered entirely safe. However, you have to ensure to remove the seeds from the watermelon. 

 


Watermelon is a great source of vitamin C, A, B1, B5 and B6. It also contains helpful amounts of potassium and magnesium. 

 


The nutrients in watermelon help boost immune function and helps in the function of a host of other activities in the body. They can be just as helpful for cats as they can be for humans. 

 


Watermelon works as a great treat and is soft and easy for your cat to chew. That being the case, it is important that you cut the fruit into bite-size pieces and remove the rind and seed before treating them. It is perfectly fine if your cat consumes a small thin pale seed, however, you should work to remove as many of the seeds as possible. 

 


Though you shouldn’t be feeding your cat watermelon rind, a tiny portion of the rind of watermelon has actually been known to help your cat with bowel cleansing. 

 


Can Cats Eat Bananas?

Bananas are another cat-friendly fruit that is safe for your feline to consume. They are loaded with potassium and carbohydrates and is a good source of vitamin B6 and C. 

 


Potassium is an important electrolyte that is responsible for the proper function of nerves and muscles. Even though you wouldn’t feed your cat large quantities of bananas, bananas as an occasional treat work to replenish your cat’s potassium levels, aiding the better regulation of muscle and nerve health. 

 


Bananas are easy enough to chew, however, you shouldn’t feed them a whole banana. Cut it up into small bite-size pieces and make sure to remove the skin. Do not feed your cat banana skins. 

 


Can Cats Eat Kiwi?

Kiwis are not considered toxic for cats and are considered cat-friendly. They won’t face any real issues so long as you feeding them kiwi in moderation. 

 


Kiwis are exceptionally high in vitamin C, which makes them great for your cat’s immune system. It also contains plenty of fibre, potassium, vitamin E and folate. 

 


When feeding your cat kiwi, make sure to peal the fruit properly and chop it into bite-size pieces. Though kiwi is non-toxic, you don’t want to overfeed them the fruit, hence be sure to feed sparingly. 

 


Can Cats Eat Apricot?

Apricots can make for a good occasional treat for cats and contains plenty of potassium and beta-carotene.

 


The nutrients in apricot help to fight cancer. That being the case, the pit, stem and leaves of the fruit are all poisonous for your cat and should be avoided at all costs. Otherwise, the flesh of the fruit is completely safe and can be a great healthy treat for your cat, so long as you chop it up into bite-size pieces. 

 


Can Cats Eat Pears?

Pears are loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A and fibre making them a great occasional treat for your cat. The flesh of the fruit is cat-friendly, however, the pear seeds do contain trace amounts of cyanide. Hence, it is very important to remove the seeds before feeding your cat. 

 


The nutrients in pears are great for your cat’s immune system and bring with them many essential functions for your feline’s wellbeing. 

 


Moderation is key when feeding cats any fruit and this applies to pears too. Pears contain anti-cancer properties which can be beneficial for your cat. You can reap these benefits by feeding your cat a small amount of the fruit on an occasional basis. 

 

 

Other Fruits that are Considered Safe for Cats

Apart from the fruits that we highlighted above, there are some other fruits that can be consumed by cats that are considered safe. Honeydew, cucumber and nectarines are all considered safe for your cat to consume. 

 


As with all fruits, you don’t want to feed them too much fruit and should always seek to maintain moderation. 

 

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Fruits to Avoid Feeding Your Cat

When it comes to fruits, though small quantities in moderation are considered helpful, some fruits are best left avoided altogether. These fruits really do not help your cat in any way and bring about a host of issues. Some are even toxic for cats and should be avoided at all costs. 

 


Can Cats Eat Grapes?

No, cats should not be fed grapes as is could lead to a host of health complications including kidney failure. Even a small amount of grapes can make your cat fall ill. 

 


Grapes could cause repeated vomiting and hyperactivity, which are considered early signs. Though all cats do not show ill effects, it is best to avoid this fruit and keep it away from your cat reach, just to be sure. 

 


Can Cats Eat Oranges?

No, cats should not be fed citrus fruits since the oils and compounds in them could cause digestive irritation. 

 


Early signs of irritation would include vomiting and diarrhoea. It can even lead to more serious issues such as central nervous system depression.

 


When it comes to oranges, though, you may be inclined to think that it is safe for your cat, you should avoid it. Do not feed it even a small amount of this fruit, as it could lead to negative impacts on their wellbeing.

 


Can Cats Eat Raisins?

Raisins are made from grapes and should be avoided for you cat. It can cause a host of gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhoea. 

 


Raisins can even cause lethargy in cats and can lead to more serious complications such as kidney failure. Hence, be sure to keep raisins away from your cat’s reach. Even if you drop a raisin on the floor, pick it up before your cat has a chance to eat it. 

 


Can Cats Eat Lemons and Limes? 

Lemons and limes are too citrus fruits that can cause digestive issues and irritation. Citrus is not well suited to the intestines of cats and will cause issues such as vomiting and diarrhoea. 

 


Much like oranges, you should avoid feeding your cat lemons or limes. Not that they would enjoy eating lemons or lime due to the sour taste, but don’t allow them to even mistakenly consume the fruit to ensure safety. 

 


 Can Cat Eat Cherries?

Cherries are toxic for cats as they contain traces of amygdalin which is converted into cyanide in the body.

 


Cherries apart from being a choking hazard is poisonous for cats and should be avoided at all costs. Cherry poisoning will include symptoms such as bright red gums, difficulty breathing and dilated pupils and shock.

 


Do not leave cherries at your cat reach and pick them up if you drop them on the floor by mistake. Cherries are incredibly poisonous and dangerous for cats can lead to eventual death. 

 


Can Cats Eat Tomatoes?

Though ripe tomatoes are considered safe, green tomatoes contain toxins that can make your cat sick. If you are wondering whether to feed your cat tomatoes or even include it in their meals, it is best to consult a veterinarian first to get the necessary advice. 

 


Tomatoes can be safe for your cat, however, you don’t want to feed them unripe ones. Hence, it is good to avoid them, just to be on the safe side. 

 

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Are Fruit Snacks Safe for Cats?

No, you should not be feeding your cat fruit snacks. Fruit snacks contain high amounts of sugar which can be very unhealthy for cats. Though they contain fruits, they contain too many unhealthy components to make them good for your cat. 

 


It is best to avoid fruit snacks altogether and not be inclined to think that anything that contains fruits is considered good for your cat. 

 

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How Much Fruit Should You Feed Your Cat?

Typically, fruit and other treats should not compose of more than 2% of your cat’s diet. This means, if you are feeding your cat some fruit every day, you should limit yourself to about a 1-inch portion of fruit every day.

 


Fruits work really well as an alternative to other pet treats and can be especially useful when you are trying to get your cat to lose some weight. They can be served frozen or fresh but should be cut up into small bite-size pieces. 

 


Try to not include the fruit with the regular pet food. Feed is separate as you would feed them a treat. 

 


Remember, cats are carnivores hence you may notice that your cat is unable to comfortably digest the fruit. If this is the case, you may notice signs and symptoms of an upset stomach. Symptoms could include diarrhoea, vomiting and constipation. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should stop feeding them fruit and should ideally consult a veterinarian for advice. 

 


When it comes to diabetic cats, fruits should be avoided altogether since they contain high levels of sugars.  

 


To Conclude

Though carnivores, fruits can be a great treat for your cat. They would enjoy it as an occasional treat and will provide them with a good dose of essential nutrients that are great for their wellbeing. 

 


Not all fruits are suitable for cats and some are best left avoided. We aimed to provide you with a comprehensive list of fruits that are considered cat-friendly, so you know which fruits you should be feeding your cat and which you should be avoiding. 

 


We hope after reading this word to word, you have a good idea of the types of fruits that are considered safe for your cat. We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that it has helped you to better treat your cat and care for your cat’s wellbeing. 

 


Happy Petting!

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