A crisp, sweet treat, chowing down on an apple is a nutritious way to satisfy your hunger. But can cats eat apples?
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, at least for humans. But what if your kitty seems to want to take a bite of that fresh apple while your munching on it? Should you offer her a piece? Or are apples unsafe for your cute little obligate carnivore?
It turns out that there are certain fruits that are totally safe for cats to occasionally snack on as a treat, but are apples one of them? We’ve compiled some information below to help you get the answers you need.
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According to the ASPCA, the seeds, stems, and leaves of apples are toxic to cats because they contain cyanide. So, if you are going to offer your cat some apple, you need to use caution to ensure you are only giving her the parts of the fruit that are safe to consume.
Other experts offer the following information on apples: this fruit contains nutrients, such as vitamins and fiber, that can help support an animal’s health. However, you should be sure to remove both the seeds and the core prior to feeding it to your kitty. And, it’s best to feed this fruit in small amounts as an occasional treat.
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Prior to giving your cat some apple, it’s wise to thoroughly wash this fruit so that you remove as much pesticide residue as possible. Or, better yet, consider purchasing organic apples, especially because apples are high on the “dirty dozen” list of produce with the highest pesticide residues. No matter what you choose, though, it’s also a good idea to remove the skin prior to giving your kitty an apple treat.
Like other fruits that are safe for cats to eat every now and then, it’s wise to consider the sugar content of apples. This is yet another reason why experts recommend limiting the amount of this fruit that your kitty snacks on.
Some cats are really curious when it comes to eating human foods, while others couldn’t care less. You really won’t know if your cat is up for eating apples until you offer her some.
Slice some up, making sure to remove the skin, seeds, and core, and offer her small pieces to see if she’s interested. Don’t let her eat too much, especially at first, as it’s also a good idea to wait and see if the fruit agrees with her system or not.
The best person to consult when it comes to your cat’s nutritional needs and diet is your veterinarian or a qualified and experienced feline nutritionist. Ask these professionals all of the questions you might have, and share your concerns. They can help you determine if it’s a good idea to offer your cat some apple as a snack, or if it’s best to keep this fruit out of your cat’s diet altogether.
