Do you wish you can share a piece of warm apple pie with your cute little cat? Most pet parents wonder, can cats eat apples? The answer is a bit tricky since apples are not considered toxic to cats.
However, the seeds contain cyanide which is poisonous for your pet. Keep reading to discover whether cats can eat apples or not.
Can Cats Eat Apples
Are Apples Healthy For Cats?
Apples contain various vitamins such as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, and E. In addition, this juicy fruit contains manganese and copper, which is beneficial for humans but can cats eat apples? It’s not recommended.
When cats live in the wild, their natural carnivorous appetites lead them towards protein to meet their nutritional needs.
Cats don’t have the enzyme needed to digest sugar, even if it’s natural sugar from a piece of fruit.
While you shouldn’t panic if your cat ate a slice of apple off your plate, it shouldn’t become a long-term habit because it can lead to digestive issues and put your cat at risk of developing diabetes.
Cats don’t usually crave sweets, so it’s rare for them to seek out fruit. You can feed your cat a piece of apple on occasion but avoid giving them the toxic seeds.
Warning Signs
As a pet parent, it’s your decision whether you want to give your cat a piece of apple on occasion or not. If you are unsure about feeding your cat an apple, consult with a veterinarian.
Sometimes cats have underlying health issues such as diabetes which will cause the problem to soar.
If you decide to feed your cat apple on a regular basis, it can lead to obesity and health issues.
The following symptoms are signs your cat’s blood sugar level is high and, if left untreated, can develop into long-term health problems.
- Vomiting
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty jumping onto furniture and other surfaces they once found easy to access
- Lack of appetite
If your cat shows any of the signs mentioned above after eating apple on a consistent basis, contact a veterinarian for further assistance.
Can Cats Eat Other Fruit?
The following fruits are considered toxic for cats:
- Citrus fruit – All citrus fruits contain citric acid and, when given to cats in large doses, cause issues in the central nervous system.
- Coconut – Coconut is not toxic for cats but should only be given to cats in oil form. The flesh part of the coconut causes stomach upset and discomfort in cats when eaten in large amounts.
- Currants – Toxic to cats and can lead to death.
- Raisins – Toxic and can lead to death.
- Grapes – Toxic and can lead to death.
Alternative Healthy Snacks for Cats
Can cats eat apples? Only in small amounts and in moderation, but you can feed other healthy snacks to your kitten, including the following vegetables.
- Carrots
- Celery
- Spinach
- Zucchini
- Green bell peppers
- Pumpkin
- Broccoli
- Peas
Bottom Line
Consult with a veterinarian before adding any vegetable or fruit to your cat’s diet. Since cats don’t require fruits or vegetables in their diet to meet their nutritional needs, providing them in moderation is ideal for most cats.
If you prefer to add vegetables to your cat’s diet, make sure you find out which options your cat likes the best. Some cats prefer certain flavors over others.
For example, your cat might like peas and pumpkin but spit celery out or vice versa. The key to determining your cat’s preference is by observing their behavior closely.
Always avoid giving your cat vegetables or fruit in abundance or frequently. Consistent consumption of these products can lead to serious health issues.
Feed your cat with careful thought, and always speak to a veterinarian before adding any new food to your cat’s diet.
$$$$
