Can Cats Eat Popsicles? (What’s about Fruit Popsicles?)
It’s summer time, and what could be more refreshing than a cold popsicle on a hot day? But when you’re licking that frosty treat, have you ever wondered, “Can cats eat popsicles?”
The simple answer is no, cats/kittens should not eat popsicles. Popsicles are made with sugar and other ingredients that can be harmful to cats. In addition, the cold temperature of a popsicle can cause stomach upset in cats. So it’s best to keep those popsicles to yourself and give your feline friend a bowl of ice water instead.
Keep reading more to learn about the dangers of popsicles for cats and what about different flavors of popsicles effect them. You’ll also find some tips on how to keep your cat cool and hydrated during the summer months.
What Are Danger of Popsicles for Cats?
Ever cat is different and some can tolerate small amounts of sugar or other ingredients in popsicles, while others cannot. But in general, it’s best to avoid giving popsicles to cats because they can be harmful.
The main dangers of popsicles for cats are:
1. Sugar (and Other Sweeteners)
I know, it’s hard to resist that sweet, syrupy taste of a popsicle, but unfortunately, it’s not good for cats. Cats do not naturally crave sweetness the way we do, and their bodies are not designed to process large amounts of sugar. Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems in cats.
2. Artificial Coloring and Flavors
Do you ever wonder why those popsicles are so brightly colored? It’s because they’re full of artificial coloring and flavors. These ingredients can be toxic to cats and may cause stomach upset or other problems.
3. Cold Temperature
The cold temperature of a popsicle can also be harmful to cats. When a cat eats or drinks something cold, it can cause stomach pain and intestinal cramping. So it’s best to avoid giving popsicles to cats, or at least let them thaw out completely before feeding them to your feline friend.
Can Cats Eat Ice Pops?
Many pet parents wonder if it’s safe to share their ice pops with their cats. After all, cats love anything that’s cold and delicious, right?
The short answer is no, cats should not eat ice pops. Ice pops are made with sugar and other sweeteners, which can cause digestive upset in cats. In addition, the high water content of ice pops can lead to dehydration.
So while it may be tempting to give your cat a little taste of your summer treat, it’s best to keep the ice pops to yourself. If your cat is showing signs of dehydration, such as lethargy or decreased appetite, contact your veterinarian right away.
Can Cats Eat Fruit Popsicles?
While cats are finicky eaters, most of them enjoy the occasional snack of fruit (or vegetables). However, when it comes to fruit popsicles, the answer is a little less clear. Most commercially-available popsicles contain sugar, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats.
In addition, the stick or wrapping associated with popsicles can also pose a choking hazard. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid giving fruit popsicles to your cat. If you’re looking for a safe and healthy treat for your feline friend, consider offering her a small piece of fresh fruit instead.
Can Cats Eat Coconut Popsicles?
Cats typically enjoy fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew melon, and they’re a much better option than sugary fruit popsicles. Coconut popsicles are a summertime favorite for many people, but can cats enjoy them too?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. While coconuts are safe for cats to eat in small amounts, the same cannot be said for popsicles made with coconut milk. These treats contain high levels of lactose, which is a sugar that most cats cannot digest properly.
In addition, the freezing process can make the lactose even more difficult to digest. For these reasons, it’s best to keep popsicles out of your cat’s reach.
Can Cats Eat Mango Popsicles?
I get a lot of questions from cat guardians about what their cats can and can’t eat. It seems that almost every food imaginable has been fed to a cat at some point, with varying degrees of success. So, can cats eat mango popsicles?
The short answer is no. Popsicles are generally made with sugar, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats. And while mangoes are safe for cats to eat in small amounts, they do contain a substance called psoralen that can make your cat’s skin more sensitive to the sun.
So, it’s best to give your cat a pass on the mango popsicles. Stick to cat-safe fruits like bananas, cantaloupe, and strawberries instead.
Can Cats Have Strawberry Popsicles?
No, cats should not have strawberry popsicles. Popsicles are made with sugar and other sweeteners that can damage a cat’s teeth and contribute to obesity.
In addition, the sticks that hold the popsicle in place can be a choking hazard. Some brands of popsicle also contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to cats.
If you are looking for a treat to give your cat on a hot day, try offering a small bowl of lukewarm water instead.
Can Cats Have Lime Popsicles?
While there’s nothing wrong with an occasional lime popsicle for people, the citrus fruit can spell trouble for our feline friends. Limes contain a compound called psoralen, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and even vomiting in cats.
And that’s not all—the essential oils in limes can cause skin irritation, redness, and swelling. If your cat happens to lick a lime popsicle, they may experience drooling, pawing at their mouth, or difficulty swallowing.
In severe cases, psoralen can lead to liver damage. So, while a lime popsicle may sound like a refreshing treat on a hot summer day, it’s best to keep them out of reach of your feline friend.
What Are The Danger Signs To Watch For?
If your cat has eaten a popsicle, contact your veterinarian right away. They will likely want to monitor your cat for signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Other danger signs to watch for include drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and lethargy. If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, they may need to be seen by a veterinarian right away.
At-Home Treatment
If your cat has eaten a small amount of popsicle without any ill effects, there is no need for treatment. However, it’s important to keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t start showing any signs of illness.
If your cat does seem to be sick, offer them a small amount of water or milk to drink. If they refuse to drink, or if they start vomiting, contact your veterinarian right away.
For cats that have eaten a popsicle stick, keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t start choking. If they do start choking, contact your veterinarian or local emergency animal hospital immediately.
How Can You Keep Your Cat Safe?
The best way to keep your cat safe is to avoid giving them popsicles altogether. If you must have popsicles in the house, make sure they are kept out of reach of your feline friend.
You can also try making popsicles at home that are safe for cats, such as ones made with plain yogurt or fruit juice. However, it’s important to avoid adding any sweeteners, as these can be harmful to cats.
If you have any questions about what foods are safe for your cat, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to give you tailored advice based on your cat’s individual health and diet.
Alternative Ways to Keep Your Cat Cool & Hydrated
Now that you know popsicles are a no-go for cats, you may be wondering how else you can keep your feline friend cool and hydrated during the summer months.
Here are a few ideas:
- Offer fresh, clean water throughout the day and make sure they have access to a shady spot to rest.
- Place a frozen water bottle in their bed or sleeping area.
- Invest in a pet-safe cooling mat or pad.
- Make homemade cat ice pops by freezing water or broth in an ice cube tray. Just make sure you don’t add any sweeteners!
By following these tips, you can help keep your cat cool and hydrated all summer long.
Bottom Line
I know how tempting it can be to share a popsicle with your cat on a hot summer day. But unfortunately, popsicles are not safe for cats—even the ones that seem harmless, like lime popsicles.
If your cat has eaten a popsicle, watch them closely for signs of illness and contact your veterinarian right away if they start showing any symptoms. And to keep your cat safe, make sure popsicles are always kept out of reach.
Looking for more summer safety tips? Check out our blog post on keeping your pets safe in the summer heat!
