July 29th, 2022
Is It Safe to Give My Dog or Cat Fruit?
There are many benefits of including fruit in a healthy human diet, but as a pet parent, you may ask yourself: can my pets eat fruit? If you're tempted to feed these tasty treats to your furry friend, you'll be happy to know that you can include fruit in your pet's snack routine, as long as you stick to those fruits that are safe.
Some fruits can be toxic to your pet, so it's very important to double-check with your veterinarian before sharing your fruit salad. Also, remember that it is very important to consider your pet's overall diet. If your dog or cat is already eating a well-balanced diet, make sure that you don't overdo it with feeding them fruit, even if it is a nutritious treat.
Can Dogs Eat Fruit?
Generally speaking, if you're asking yourself, "Can dogs eat fruit?" the answer is yes, but only certain kinds and limited amounts of fruits.
Moderation is the key to incorporating fruit into your dog's meals. Excessive ingestion of fruit (even safe fruit) may cause intestinal irritation, diarrhea, or bloating. It is recommended that any food outside your dog's primary nutrition be less than 10% of their overall calorie intake. All foods discussed below should be discussed with your veterinarian before giving to your dog.
Additionally, be sure to remove any choking hazards, such as ball-shaped pieces of fruit, seeds, pits, and stems, some of which can be toxic.
Here are some safe fruits for dogs, including recommended appropriate portion sizes:
- Apples (1-2 slices): High in fiber and protein, this fruit is a great source of vitamins A and C. Do not feed your dog the core because the seeds contain a substance that can release cyanide.
- Apricots (1 slice): It's a yummy, sweet treat, but carefully and completely remove the leaves, stem and pit prior to serving because these are toxic to dogs, cats and horses.
- Bananas (1-2 pieces): Containing potassium and carbs, this versatile fruit should be sliced into approximately one-inch chunks.
- Blackberries (2-3 berries): Full of antioxidants and fiber, this berry also packs vitamins A, C, K and E.
- Blueberries (2-3 berries): This berry contains strong antioxidant properties and is considered a superfood for humans and dogs.
- Cantaloupe (1 piece): This melon contains beta-carotene, a pigment that makes it orange, and which aids in the improvement of vision. Cut it into one-inch chunks.
- Cranberries (1-2 tablespoons): Cook this berry in water (and no other ingredients) before serving it to your dog.
- Kiwis (1/2 slice): In addition to fiber, kiwis provide vitamin A and potassium.
- Mango (1-2 slices): Before serving this exotic fruit to your pet, peel it and remove the pit to avoid digestive issues. The pit is toxic.
- Peaches (2-3 pieces): Skip the canned version (too much sugar) and opt for the fresh fruit, cut up into bite-sized pieces with the toxic pit carefully removed, for a treat that's high in vitamin A.
- Pears (2-3 pieces): Pears are high in fiber and copper. Choose chunks of the whole fruit and remove the core and seeds, which are toxic.
- Pineapples (2-3 pieces): Raw, fresh pineapple is a wonderful sweet treat— Cut off the prickly skin before serving.
- Strawberries (1/2 berry): This yummy berry contains vitamins B1 and B6, helpful for your dog's muscles says VetInfo.
- Watermelon (1 slice, seedless): Because it's ninety-two percent water, this melon is a go-to for humans and dogs to prevent dehydration when temperatures rise.
Can Cats Eat Fruit?
Unlike dogs, cats aren't interested in the sweetness of fruit as they do not have any sweet taste receptors on their tongue. Vetstreet explains, fruit can be a good option (in moderation, of course) as a substitute for cat treats.
The following are safe fruits to feed your fur baby that's looking for a refreshing snack. Portions should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces that do not pose a choking hazard for your kitty. Follow the same serving instruction for dogs, as explained above:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Strawberries
- Watermelon (seedless)
What Fruits to Avoid with Dogs and Cats
Consuming the wrong plant-based food can pose serious health risks for your pet. The following fruits should not be given to your dog or cat:
- Cherries: The cherry pit contains cyanide, which is toxic to dogs and can be lethal.
- Grapes and raisins: These foods can cause serious digestive issues in your pet, including diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. They may even cause acute kidney failure in cats and dogs, notes the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, so it's important to keep them away from your little furry friends.
- Green Tomatoes (Yes, we're considering them a fruit): Red ripe tomatoes are usually healthy for pets, but some green tomatoes contain toxins that can make pets sick, so it is always best to consult your veterinarian first.
Can dogs eat fruit? Can cats eat fruit? Absolutely — if it's a safe fruit and eaten in moderation. However, it is necessary to warn that some fruits are not healthy for dogs and cats with certain medical conditions, so it is always important to check with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods into your pets' nutrition.
If you're looking to add some variety to your pet's snacks, you have many safe options from which to choose. Just as you do when searching for the right dog food or right cat food, watch your pet closely when feeding them any new food item, and contact your vet with any questions.
Bon appétit!
Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.