Key Takeaways
- Apples can be safely eaten by cats in moderation as long as they’re peeled and cored 🍎✔️
- It’s unknown if the health benefits of apples are the same for cats as they are for humans 🤔
- Be cautious about feeding your cat too much fruit, as it’s high in sugar, which can contribute to obesity and diabetes ⚠️
Is Eating Fruit Like Apples Safe for Cats?
There are some human foods that are safe for our furry friends, including cats. Cats can safely eat fruit such as bananas, strawberries and blueberries, in moderation. In addition, they can enjoy vegetables such as green beans, carrots, and peas. But it’s important to remember that not all human foods are safe for cats. For example, grapes are toxic to cats. Can cats eat apples?
Fact Check 🔍
Some people believe that feeding their cat a diet of human food is healthier than commercial cat foods, which may contain preservatives. It’s not true, though. Your cat needs taurine in their diet, and none of the meats we eat is a good enough source of this amino acid for felines. Cat food supplemented with taurine should be the majority of what your cat eats.
The Nutritional Value of Apples
Apples are a nutrient-rich food. They provide good amounts of:
- dietary fiber;
- vitamin C;
- flavonoids.
Flavonoids are plant-based substances that have antioxidant properties. A recent study showed that people who consume two apples a day have a lower risk of developing heart disease. Can the same be true for cats? It’s unknown.
The fiber in apples can definitely help to regulate digestion, and may relieve constipation. The vitamin C in apples helps to boost the immune system and protect against infections. What’s more, apples contain antioxidants which help to protect against cancer and other diseases.
One medium apple provides about 95 calories and is a good source of dietary fiber. Apples are recommended for people who try to lose weight, as well as for diabetics. The benefits of apples are countless, but can cats eat apples safely?
Can Cats Eat Apples and Applesauce?
Yes, cats can eat apples, as long as they aren’t allergic to them. Some cats enjoy the taste, while others are completely uninterested in fruit. Although a piece of apple won’t harm your cat, there are a few things to keep in mind before you feed your cat some.
- You should always peel and core the apple before offering it to your cat. The seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic for cats, and the skin is hard to digest for a carnivore like your cat.
- Apples are a high-glycemic food, which means that they can cause your cat’s blood sugar to spike. If your cat is diabetic or has other health concerns that require you to monitor their blood sugar levels, don’t give them any apple slices.
Overall, some cats seem to enjoy eating apples, while others couldn’t care less. They can be a healthy snack option as long as you take into account the potential risks associated with them. To make apples more palatable and easier for cats to digest, you can make plain applesauce.
Signs of Apple Seed Poisoning
While apples are safe for cats to eat in moderation, there are dangers associated with apple seeds. Firstly, your cat could choke on the seeds. What’s even more dangerous, apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous to cats and humans alike. Symptoms of poisoning include:
- difficulty breathing;
- dilated pupils;
- diarrhea;
- excessive drooling.
If you believe your feline friend has eaten apple seeds and is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek veterinary help immediately.
Can Cats Eat Apple Peels?
Although apple peels contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, you should remember one thing. Cats can’t digest the tough skins of fruit and vegetables. Peeled apples are much easier on their digestive systems than apples with the skin on. How else can cats eat apples safely? You can also chop the apple into small pieces, which will be easier for your cat to eat.
Can Cats Eat Apples That Have Been Cooked?
Cooking apples can make them even easier for your cat to eat and digest, but it can also increase their glycemic index. Because the sugars in the fruit are easier for the body to use, and some moisture is lost in the process of cooking, the apple will become a more calorie-dense snack. We don’t recommend feeding your cat apples in this form, simply because they don’t need the additional carbs.
To Sum Up, Can Cats Eat Apples?
In conclusion, can cats eat apples? Yes. Apples are a nutritious food for cats and provide many benefits, such as helping to improve their digestion and coat condition. However, it’s important to only give your cat small amounts of apple at a time and not overfeed them. Too much apple can cause digestive problems for cats.
Editor’s Note
Cat’s are obligate carnivores, and their healthy diet should be rich in meat-based products. Fruits can’t be a substitute for a balanced diet, but should be treated rather like a supplement or treat. And because cats lack sweet taste receptors, they may not be excited for sweet treats at all.
Pros and Cons of Feeding Your Cat Apples
| PROS | CONS |
| Cats enjoy crunchy things, so apples can be an interesting snack for them. | Apples are full of carbohydrates, which are bad for your cat’s weight and proper nutrition. |
| Apples are nutritious and can improve your cat’s digestion. | If your cat eats apples with the skin on or eats too many, they can develop digestive issues. |
| Adding applesauce to your cat’s food can encourage them to eat it if they’ve gotten bored with it, and provide additional hydration. | Cats can’t taste sweetness, so they may quickly lose interest in fruit. |
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