Can Cats Eat Apples? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Alternative Options
By Ed Malaker
Updated on
Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the United States, as evidenced by the old saying “As American as Apple Pie!” They are inexpensive to purchase and grow freely in many areas, so it’s not uncommon for cat owners to wonder if their feline friends can eat them. The short answer is yes, cats can eat apples. However, there are several things to consider before you make it a regular treat. Keep reading while we take a closer look at apples to find the pros and cons of feeding them to your pet.
Are Apples Bad for My Cat?
All cat breeds are carnivorous animals, which means that animal proteins make up almost all of their diet. Cats do not have the digestive enzymes to break down plant matter the way that omnivores do, so eating too much of this food can cause problems. However, the ingredients of most cat foods will have a few fruits and vegetables listed, and it’s not unlikely that you will find apples.
Sugar
One of the main components of an apple is sugar, and a single cup contains as much as 13 grams. Sugar is another way that cats are different from humans, and while we may enjoy the occasional sweet snack, there is evidence that cats can’t taste sweets. If they can’t taste sweets, there is no need to feed them to your pet and will only work to add sugar to their diet. Unfortunately, sugar will still lead to obesity, and cats are already suffering from obesity across America, with some experts suggesting as many as 50% of cats over 5 years old weigh more than they should.
Pesticides
Apples are the target of pesticides in many parts of the country, and an apple’s large surface can hold a considerable amount. We recommend always washing and peeling any apples you feed your cat.
Are There Any Risks in Feeding Apples to My Cat?
Apple seeds contain cyanogenic glucosides, so due to the risk of ingesting these toxic compounds, you should never offer entire apples to your cat. Besides washing and peeling the apples, the core and seeds must be removed, and only a small slice cut into tiny squares can be offered to your cat occasionally. Apples should never be fed to diabetic cats because the sugar content will spike their insulin levels.
Feeding apples too often to a cat is also contraindicated. Apples are mainly a carbohydrate source, and a cat’s diet should be based on high-quality proteins and only contain minimal carbohydrates. So, while apples provide a few benefits, they are not species appropriate for a cat. Offering them the occasional small piece is fine; just don’t make it a habit.
Are Apples Good for My Cat?
Water
The primary ingredient in an apple is water, which can help hydrate your cat, especially during the summer months, when cats lounge around and don’t drink much. Many cats eat dry kibble and they don’t drink enough water, they can become dehydrated, leading to constipation and more severe health problems.
Fiber
Raw apples have some fiber, which can help regulate your cat’s sensitive digestive system. Fiber helps reduce the risk of constipation and diarrhea by controlling the amount of water in the intestines. If your cat is constipated or suffers from frequent diarrhea, adding fiber to the diet can help get your cat back to normal. However, too much fiber, especially in combination with the high water content of an apple, can cause your cat to have loose stools and even diarrhea.
Micronutrients
Apples have a good number of important micronutrients, including lutein, zeaxanthin, phosphorus, and potassium. As a source of antioxidants, they can help to protect your pet’s health.
How Should I Feed Apples to My Cat?
We recommend avoiding apples unless your cat has a fondness for them. If you notice your cat trying to eat your apples, we recommend cleaning one well and cutting out a 1/2-inch cube without the skin. Chop a small piece off and let your cat try it. If they eat it and don’t have problems in the litter box for the next 24 hours, you can slightly increase the amount of apple that you give your cat. We recommend serving no more than a small slice of apple once per week, as a treat.
Alternatives to Apples
Carrots
Carrots are a popular ingredient in many cat foods, and a small portion of cooked carrots can be a colorful treat for your cat without as much of the sugar contained in apples.
Peas
You can serve peas raw or cooked, and some cats might eat them faster than you might expect, as it’s a popular ingredient in many cat foods due to their protein content.
Broccoli
Broccoli is the perfect treat for indoor cats that like to eat plants. Cooked broccoli is healthy for your cat and gives them something to play with and chew on.
Green Beans
Green beans, like peas, can be served raw or cooked and provide a great source of fiber.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a widely used food for relieving constipation in dogs, but it can help your cat as well by adding plenty of fiber to its diet. Pumpkin is a popular ingredient in many pet stores, and cats seem to like it.
Final Thoughts
If your cat ate some apple without you noticing, they will likely be just fine. You can even give a small amount as a treat once per week, but we recommend choosing a healthier alternative to avoid the risk of weight gain. The alternative list we provided is a great place to start, but plenty of foods would make a better snack for a cat than an apple.
We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped improve your cat’s diet, please share this guide to feeding your cat apples on Facebook and Twitter.
- Related Read: Can Cats Eat Eggs? What You Need to Know!