Since we were kids, we've been hearing the famous saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," but do we know if that really holds true about cats? As it turns out, as a bite-size snack for cats apples can actually be safe, but only when given in a moderate amount. As we know, fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C are found in apples and they can complement a cat's diet very well. Just make sure that you are practicing moderation if you want your cat to be healthy, strong and well.
Can Cats Eat Apples?
So, can cats chomp on apple slices without any worry? Absolutely! But, like with any other good thing, there's a catch with apples as well. Consuming too many apples, especially if they become a regular snack or in large portions, could upset your cat's tummy, as PetMD points out in their article. However, since apples are watery they can actually help keep your kitty well hydrated, which is a plus, especially during the summer.
Risks With Feeding Cats Apples
There are some important things you should keep an eye out for when you give an apple as a snack or a treat. The seeds, core, and stems of apples possess cyanide, which can make your cat extremely sick if consumed in large amounts.
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in cats start with challenges in breathing, dilated pupils, and sometimes death.
Cyanide messes up the body's oxygen use and will affect your cat adversely. To keep it safe, always remember to remove these toxic parts before giving apples to your cat.
In this case, take the cat to the vet as soon as you see an animal experiencing physical pain or a tummy run after the apples.
Can Cats Eat Applesauce?
Applesauce is delicious but not a good choice as your cat’s snack. Commercial applesauce that contains preservatives and sugars are even worse for a cat’s digestive system. When choosing cat treats, always go for whole, fresh apples to avoid any health problems.
Can Cats Eat Cooked Apple?
According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, small pieces of raw, not cooked apples fall under the category of healthy treat your cat can have once in a while. Thus, you should not bother to cook them while giving them to your cat.
Often people think that baking or steaming apple slices makes them a gentler and easier option for your cat's tummy but it's important to take some precautions with these as well. Removing seeds, core, and the stem is essential.
Although some cats may tolerate cooked apples well, others may develop allergies or an upset stomach. We recommend that you give your cat the cooked apples in moderation and monitor how they react to the treat. This will enable you to determine whether cooked apples are suitable for your cat to consume regularly.
Can Cats Drink Apple Juice?
Is it alright to give my cat apple juice to drink? The answer is no; giving your cat apple juice to drink is terrible. Just like applesauce, regular market juices come with preserving chemicals and additional sugars that are extremely dangerous to cats.
Furthermore, cats who keep consuming apple juice on a regular basis may get diabetes, become obese, and have dental problems from time to time, all because of high sugar content.
Instead, just give your cat some fresh, clean water to drink. Having constant access to water is very important for all pets, especially cats as it keeps up their general health and hydration.
How to Feed Apples to Your Cat
If you really want to include apples in your cat's diet, keep these simple tips in mind for maximum benefit:
Always choose organic apples because this will ensure that you minimize your cat’s exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Wash the apples well to remove dirt, wax, or pesticide residue.
Peel the apples before giving them to your cat and always remove the seeds, core, and stem.
To avoid choking, always cut the apples into small, bite-sized pieces before feeding them to your cat.
It is perfectly ok to treat your cat to apples occasionally, but remember not to use them as a substitute for their regular meals. As with all other things in life, it's all about balance!
Conclusion
To sum up, when given to cats in moderation and if they are prepared properly, apples can be a great nutritious indulgence. However, steer clear of the dreaded seeds, core, or stems because their cyanide content can be fatal for the cat. When you introduce apples to your cat for the first time ever, keep a close eye on their response and monitor them. Reach out to your vet asap if you have any worries about their behavior post consumption. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your furry friend's well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats have pineapple?
Absolutely, all cats can sometimes enjoy small amounts of pineapple as a special treat. However, it's important that the pineapple is ripe, fresh, and free of any preservatives or added sugars.
Are apples good for cats? Are apples safe for cats?
They can indeed be a beneficial addition to a cat's diet when offered in moderation. They provide dietary fiber and vital minerals like vitamins A and C, contributing to a well-rounded feline nutrition.
Can cats have applesauce?
It's wise to steer clear of applesauce since many commercial options contain added sugars, preservatives, and other additives that could upset their digestive systems.
