Can Cats Eat Apples? (Vet Suggestions & My Experience)
Yes, cats can eat apples as long as they are peeled, cored and chopped. Apples provide cats with important vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy eyesight and skin, and Vitamin C, which supports a strong immune system.
Additionally, apples make a great low-calorie snack for your pet that will satisfy their sweet tooth without being unhealthy. However, it is important to note that apples should never replace a regular diet of cat food and should only be fed as an occasional treat.
Here in this blog post, I’ll discuss more about the health benefits of feeding apples to cats as well as the potential risks associated with it. I’ll also provide some tips on how to safely feed apples to your cat. So without further ado, let’s get started!
Different Studies about Cats and Apples
Cats and apples have long been a subject of debate amongst pet owners. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets for cats, many have wondered if it is safe to give their felines this delicious fruit. While some veterinarians caution against giving cats apples, recent studies suggest that cats can indeed enjoy them in moderation.
One study conducted by researchers at the University of Georgia found that, while apples are not a natural part of a cat’s diet, they can be safely consumed as an occasional treat. The team gave apple slices to domestic cats and monitored their health over time. They found that none of the cats experienced any digestive issues or other ill effects from consuming the fruit.
The findings of this study were backed up by another conducted at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. The researchers found that even though cats are obligate carnivores, they can still eat fruits and vegetables without suffering adverse consequences to their health. In fact, it appears that small amounts of these foods can provide beneficial vitamins and minerals for overall well-being.
In addition to providing vitamins and minerals, apples may also offer psychological benefits for cats as well. Studies have shown that cats who are given environmental enrichment or playtime with toys experience reduced levels of stress and anxiety compared to those who do not receive such stimulation. It is believed that providing apples as an occasional snack could help keep cats mentally stimulated and enriched during times when they cannot engage in more active forms of play.
Do Cats Love to Eat Apples?
Cats may not be as enthused to eat apples as dogs, but they can learn to enjoy them. Many cats love the sweet and crunchy texture of apple slices. It’s important to get your cat used to trying different foods, including fruits and vegetables like apples.
For cats that are more hesitant to try new things, you can start by offering them smaller pieces of apple, as the sweet taste may be more inviting. You can also try mixing shredded apples into their regular food to get them interested in trying it out.
You may also find interesting to read: Can Cats Eat Papaya?
The Health Benefits of Apples for Cats
Here I’ll list some of the key health benefits of apples for cats:
1. Apples are a Rich Source of Antioxidants
Yes, apples are a rich source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and fight off disease-causing free radicals. A study found that apples had the highest antioxidant capacity of any fruits in the market!
2. Apples are High in Fiber
Apples provide cats with important dietary fiber, which helps keep their digestive system healthy and functioning properly. This can help with weight management as well as prevent constipation and other digestive issues.
3. Apples are Low in Calories
Apples are a great low-calorie snack for cats! A single apple contains only about 50 calories, so you can rest assured that your pet won’t be overindulging in unhealthy snacks.
You can also read our guides on: Can Cats Eat Apple Pie?
Nutritional Value of Apples for Cats
The following is a breakdown of the nutritional value of apples for cats:
| Type of Apple | Calories | Vitamin A (% | Vitamin C (%) | Fiber (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Delicious | 52 | 2.7 | 8.4 | 2.9 |
| Granny Smith | 52 | 2.2 | 6.2 | 2.6 |
| Gala | 57 | 3 | 9 | 2.5 |
| Golden Delicious | 56 | 2.3 | 5.8 | 2.7 |
| Fuji | 50 | 1.9 | 9.7 | 2.6 |
Source: USDA National Nutrient Database
Which Type of Apples is More Suitable for Cats?
All types of apples can provide cats with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help keep them healthy. However, some varieties may be better suited for cats than others. Generally speaking, apples that are sweeter and less tart tend to be more appealing to cats.
Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and Gala apples are some of the most popular varieties that cats enjoy. But personally, I love to feed Granny Smith apples to my cats due to their tart flavor and high fiber content. They also contain more Vitamin A than other varieties, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Ultimately, there’s no definitive answer for which type of apple is best for cats. You may have to experiment with different varieties until you find one that your cat enjoys.
The Potential Risks of Feeding Apples to Cats
Like with any new food, it is important to be aware of the potential risks that accompany feeding apples to cats. Here are some potential risks that come with feeding apples to cats:
1. Choking Hazard
Apple slices should always be given to cats in small, bite-sized pieces. The large core and seeds of the apple can pose a choking hazard if not cut properly. Besides, the fibrous skin of the apple can be difficult for cats to break down, so it should also be either removed or cut into small pieces.
2. Potential Allergic Reactions
If your cat is sensitive to apples, they may experience an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild skin irritation to swollen lips and even difficulty breathing. If you think your cat might be allergic to apples, stop feeding them the fruit and contact a vet for help.
3. Overload on Vitamins and Minerals
Although apples contain beneficial vitamins and minerals, a cat can still get too much of them. Eating too many apples can cause an overload of these nutrients in your cat’s system, leading to an upset stomach or other digestive issues. So make sure you give your cats just enough apples every day to avoid any health issues.
4. Dental Problems
Eating too much of anything can lead to dental problems for cats, including apples. Eating hard apples can wear down their teeth over time, which can put them at risk for infection or tooth decay. Therefore, it’s important to monitor how much apple your cat is eating and make sure they are getting enough dental care.
5. Digestive Issues
Too much apple can cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea and vomiting, in cats. If your cat seems to have digestive issues after eating apples, discontinue feeding them the fruit. Besides if you prepare applesauce for the cat, make sure it is unsweetened since cats are sensitive to sugar. It’s best to stick with small amounts of fresh apples instead to limit the risk of digestive issues.
6. Increased Risk of Bladder Stones
When a cat eats too much apple, their urine can become more acidic and this increases the risk of forming bladder stones. Bladder stones can block the urinary tract and cause other health problems, such as kidney failure or infection. Therefore, even though apples are a healthy snack for cats, they should be given in moderation to avoid these issues.
Tips for Feeding Apples to Your Cats
Here are some tips to keep in mind when feeding apples to cats:
1. Choose Organic Apples When Possible
Organic apples are grown without the use of potentially harmful chemicals and pesticides, so opt for organic apples whenever possible. Here’s how to spot an organic apple in the store: Look for a label that reads “100% organic” or “certified organic.”
2. Remove the Seeds
Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic to cats. Before feeding apples to your cat, make sure to remove the seeds and core. To remove the seeds, cut the apple into small pieces and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
3. Cut into Small Pieces
Apples should be cut into small pieces so that your cat can easily chew them. You will also want to avoid giving your cat large pieces of apple that could cause choking or gastrointestinal blockage.
4. Only Feed as an Occasional Treat
As I said before, apples are perfectly safe for cats as long as they are fed in moderation. Offer only a small portion of the fruit as a treat and make sure not to overfeed your cat.
5. Introduce Gradually
When introducing apples to your cat’s diet, start off with small amounts and gradually increase the amount over time. This will give your cat time to adjust and help prevent digestive issues.
6. Monitor Your Cat
As with any new food, it’s important to monitor your cat for signs of an allergic reaction or digestive distress after eating apples. If you notice anything unusual, stop feeding apples and contact your veterinarian for advice.
How Much is Too Many Apples for Your Cat?
I know it’s tempting to give your furry friend a few extra slices of apple, but it’s important to remember that too much of anything can be bad for them.
Here is a table of the recommended amount of apples to feed to cats on a daily basis depending on their body weight.
| Cat’s Weight (lbs.) | Amount of Apples per Day |
|---|---|
| 3-8 | 1/4 slice |
| 9-15 | 1/2 slice |
| 16-30 | 1 slice |
| 31-45 | 2 slices |
| 46-60 | 3 slices |
Few Vet’s Opinions on Apples for Cats
For cat owners, one of the questions that often comes up is whether or not cats can eat apples. There is a wide range of opinions on this topic from veterinarians, ranging from those who say it’s okay to those who caution against it.
Dr. Stephanie Smith, a veterinary expert at the University of Florida Veterinary Medical Center in Gainesville believes that
Cats should avoid eating apples altogether due to their acidity levels which can upset their stomachs and cause vomiting or diarrhea if eaten in large amounts or if they have an underlying medical condition like diabetes or pancreatitis.
Dr. Stephanie Smith,
Dr. Benjamin Fisher from Seattle’s Animal Care Clinic takes an intermediate approach – he believes that
Apples are generally okay for cats to consume but suggests feeding them only very small amounts and closely monitoring their reactions after consumption such as any gastrointestinal distress or allergic reactions like skin rash or sneezing.
Dr. Benjamin Fisher
Ultimately, it is best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing apples into your pet’s diet as different breeds may react differently depending on their individual health conditions and sensitivities. A veterinarian will be able to provide advice tailored specifically for your pet based on their expertise and experience with both cats and nutrition science so it’s always best practice to put safety first when considering any new food for your feline friend!
My Experience of Feeding Apples to My Cat
My experience of feeding apples to my cat Gremlin was one that I will never forget. I had always heard of cats loving apples, so when I got my own cat, I decided to give it a try.
One day, when I was out shopping for groceries, I decided to pick up an apple for Gremlin too. As soon as we got home, she knew something was different – she could sense that the grocery bag contained something special just for her!
With excitement in her eyes, she eagerly followed me around as I unpacked the groceries and put them away. When it came time to produce the apple from the bag, Gremlin was practically trembling with anticipation.
I washed the apple before giving it to Gremlin as a precautionary measure since cats are quite sensitive to any chemical residue than can be left on fruit or vegetables after they have been sprayed with pesticides.
When the apple was clean and ready to go, I gave it to Gremlin who took it in her mouth with great care and started licking it all over – clearly enjoying the new taste sensation! After licking off most of the skin she started chomping down on its juicy flesh – biting into pieces with her sharp teeth!
Gremlin seemed really happy after eating her apple – she even purred loudly which is something she doesn’t often do! She continued playing with what remained of the apple long after she had finished eating it – tossing it around in delight like some kind of precious toy! It was amazing to witness how much pleasure simple food could bring her.
From that moment onwards, every time I bought apples from the grocery store my cat came along too – not just because she wanted another snack but also because she now associated apples with positive experiences and wanted more of them! Feeding apples to my cat has become part of our regular routine now – something that both of us look forward to immensely each week!
My Final Thoughts
My experience of feeding apples to my cat has been a positive one and I believe that this fruit can be a healthy, fun addition to any feline’s diet as long as it is done responsibly under the guidance of a veterinarian.
As with any human food given to your pet, moderation is key – cats should never be fed too much of anything, including apples. Additionally, always make sure to thoroughly wash any fruits or vegetables before giving them to your pet to ensure that there is no residue from pesticides or other chemicals present on the food.
Finally, remember that every cat is different and each individual animal may have its own dietary requirements so it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new food into your pet’s diet. With these precautions in mind, you and your feline friend can enjoy the benefits of feeding apples together!
Happy snacking! 🙂
