Cats sometimes enjoy eating fruits (even though they are obligate carnivores). But did you know that not every fruit is safe for them? So, you might ask, “What fruits can cats eat?” Here, we’ll explore how certain fruits, like blueberries, cranberries, and watermelon, are excellent choices as small, occasional treats. These are examples of fruits that include beneficial nutrients like vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. We’ll also tell you about fruits not to feed cats, as they can trigger digestive issues, allergies, or even severe health complications.
Why Cats Don’t Need (But Can Have) Fruit
Cats are built to thrive on a meat-based diet. Research shows they can’t taste sweetness because a 247–base pair deletion in the Tas1r2 gene makes their sweet taste receptor nonfunctional (1). Interestingly, this mutation developed during their evolution as meat eaters. It is shared by all felid species, which include domestic cats, tigers, and cheetahs (2). Since cats can’t detect sweet flavors, they usually ignore the sugar in fruits. Also, any interest they show is more likely due to the fruit’s texture, moisture, or scent rather than its taste.
Despite these observations, when offered in appropriate amounts, certain fruits can give supplemental nutrients. However, experts agree that fruits should never comprise more than 10% of a cat’s daily caloric intake (3).
What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
If you’re wondering which fruits are cat-safe and which are risky, the following tables spell it out clearly.
Fruits Cats Can Eat Safely (Small Amounts)
| Fruit | Can cats eat it? | Why it’s OK |
|---|---|---|
| Blueberry | Yes | Low in calories and rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. |
| Cranberry | Yes | Non-toxic and may help support urinary tract health when unsweetened. |
| Banana | Yes | Provides potassium and vitamins B6 and C, but high in sugar. |
| Watermelon | Yes (flesh only) | Very hydrating and contains vitamins A and C; remove seeds and rind. |
| Cantaloupe | Yes | High water content with vitamins A and C; low in calories. |
Blueberries, cranberries, bananas, watermelons, and cantaloupes are excellent choices because:
- Blueberries are a fantastic natural source of fiber, vitamins K and C, and antioxidants. Low in calories, a few can be offered daily. These berries help to benefit the immune system, digestion, skin, and coat health.
- Cranberries, another source of antioxidants and vitamins C and E, are particularly noted for their potential urinary tract benefits. These berries contain compounds that can help prevent bacterial adhesion to the bladder wall (4).
- Bananas, with their high potassium levels, support blood pressure regulation and muscle and nerve function. Their vitamins B6 and C can help support the immune system and aid digestion. However, bananas are high in sugar and carbohydrates, so they should be given sparingly and only to healthy cats.
- Watermelons offer excellent hydration due to their high water content (over 90%). They contain vitamins C and A to support the immune system and promote healthy skin and coats. Watermelons are particularly beneficial for cats needing extra fluids.
- Cantaloupes are rich in vitamins C and A and contain beta-carotene, which supports eye health. Low in calories and high in water content, this fruit aids digestive health and hydration.
Fruits Cats Can Eat With Caution (Prep Required)
| Fruit | Can cats eat it? | Why caution is needed |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | Yes (flesh only) | Seeds and core contain cyanogenic compounds; must be removed. |
| Pear | Yes (flesh only) | Seeds and core must be removed to avoid toxicity. |
| Peach | Yes (without pit) | Pit contains cyanide compounds and poses a choking risk. |
| Nectarine | Yes (without pit) | Pit contains toxic compounds and should never be offered. |
| Mango | Yes (flesh only) | Skin and pit must be removed before serving. |
| Papaya | Yes (flesh only) | Seeds should be removed; offer in small portions only. |
| Pineapple | Yes (flesh only) | Tough texture and acidity mean it should be given sparingly. |
Fruits Cats Should Avoid Completely
| Fruit | Can cats eat it? | Why to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Grapes & Raisins | No | Extremely toxic and linked to acute kidney failure. |
| Avocado | No | Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. |
| Cherry | No | Pits, stems, and leaves contain toxic compounds. |
| Citrus (lemon, lime, orange) | No | Essential oils and acids cause digestive upset. |
| Fig | No | Can cause oral and skin irritation. |
| Plum | No | Pit contains cyanogenic glycosides. |
| Pomegranate | No | Tannins may cause vomiting and diarrhea. |
| Coconut | No | Can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. |
| Tomato | No | Contains solanine and tomatine, especially in green parts. |
| Date | No | Extremely high sugar content with no nutritional benefit. |
Grape and Raisin Toxicity: What You Need to Know
Grapes and raisins are among the most dangerous foods for both cats and dogs. Recent research points to tartaric acid (and its salt, potassium bitartrate) as the likely toxin responsible for acute kidney injury (8, 9). Levels of tartaric acid in grapes can vary widely, from 0.35% to 2%, depending on the variety, growing conditions, and ripeness. This makes the level of toxicity very hard to predict (9).
Although most reported cases involve dogs, a 2022 Dutch study documented grape toxicity in cats. Plus, earlier UK reports described two cats developing acute renal failure after eating grapes (10). Because no safe dose has been identified, even very small amounts should be treated as potentially dangerous.
Products to avoid: Grapes, raisins, sultanas, Zante currants, grape juice, foods containing cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate), and tamarinds (also high in tartaric acid).
If your cat ingests grapes or raisins: Please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
What to Know Before Feeding Your Cat Fruit
Avoid Toxic or Harmful Fruits
We should never give cats grapes, raisins, citrus fruits, cherries, or avocados. The ASPCA provides a comprehensive list of toxic foods to avoid.
Limit the Amount
Fruits should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake (3). Too much can cause stomach upset, weight gain, or nutritional imbalance.
Wash and Prepare Properly
Wash fruits thoroughly and remove any seeds, pits, stems, or peels that could pose choking hazards or contain harmful substances. Also, cut the fruits into small, manageable pieces to help your cat chew and swallow them safely.
Introduce Gradually
Introduce new fruits gradually and monitor your cat’s reaction. Some cats may be allergic or intolerant to certain fruits and show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, itching, or swelling. If you notice any distress, discontinue feeding and consult your veterinarian.
Special Considerations for Cats with Health Conditions
Cats with certain health conditions require extra caution when offering fruits:
- Diabetes: Avoid high-sugar fruits like bananas or cantaloupe, as they can increase blood glucose levels and worsen the condition.
- Kidney disease: Limit potassium-rich fruits like bananas or cantaloupe, as excessive potassium can lead to hyperkalemia. This is a serious condition that affects muscles and heart function.
Please always consult your veterinarian before introducing fruits to cats with medical conditions.
Tips for Feeding Fruits to Cats
- Start with blueberries: Firstly, if you’re seeking a single fruit to try, blueberries are an excellent choice. They’re small, easy to serve. Plus, many cats seem to enjoy them. Offer 2-3 berries as a treat.
- Freeze for variety: Especially in hot weather, freeze berries ahead of time to make treats more refreshing and slow eating pace.
- Mix with regular food: Combine fruit pieces with wet cat food to make them more appealing and digestible.
- Respect preferences: Lastly, some cats have likes or dislikes for certain fruits. So, experiment with different safe varieties to see what your cat enjoys.
Final Thoughts: What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
Now you know which fruits cats can eat and which can be problematic or harmful. The healthiest options (blueberries, cranberries, bananas, watermelons, and cantaloupes) contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can have supplemental benefits. However, fruits should only be given as occasional treats and in small quantities.
Remember that cats are obligate carnivores who can’t taste sweetness and have no biological need for fruit in their diet. Their primary nutrition must come from high-quality, meat-based cat food. Most importantly, not all fruits are safe, and some (particularly grapes and raisins) are toxic.
Important: Before giving your cat any new food, please clear it with your veterinarian first. You want to make sure it suits their dietary requirements and won’t cause adverse reactions with any medications they take.
Sources
- Li, X., et al. (2005). Pseudogenization of a Sweet-Receptor Gene Accounts for Cats’ Indifference toward Sugar. PLOS Genetics, 1(1), e3.
- Jiang, P., et al. (2012). Major taste loss in carnivorous mammals. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(13), 4956-4961.
- PetMD. What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Avocado
- Pet Poison Helpline. Toxic Food Items
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
- Wegenast, C.A., et al. (2022). Acute kidney injury in dogs following ingestion of cream of tartar and tamarinds and the connection to tartaric acid as the proposed toxic principle in grapes and raisins. Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 32(6), 812-816.
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Grape and Raisin Toxicity
- de Bruijn, R.M., et al. (2023). Incidence of Vitis fruit-induced clinical signs and acute kidney injury in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 46(1), 28-36.
