The Truth About Cats And Apples: Can Cats Eat Apples?

During our meal time, there is always a temptation to give the Kitty a bite of whatever we are having. If you thought you are the only one who experiences it, then think again. There are lots us out there.

After a period of good behavior from your cat, it would be understandable to give her a treat from your table. The primary concern is always whether all that we eat is safe for the cats. This includes fruits and any other human food. You sometimes even wonder, can cats eat apples ?

What nutrients does an apple have?

There is this common saying that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” We humans really love apples. You would not miss a bowl of apples in any kitchen or on the dining table. Nutritionists recommend the consumption of lots of fruits due to their disease prevention abilities. In humans, apples are believed to minimize the chances of diabetes and asthma.

Besides all these, apples are also rich in antioxidants. These reduce the cholesterol levels and controls aging. They are also responsible for a reduction in the growth of cancerous tissues in humans.

All these benefits to humans may make one think that apples are heaven sent fruits to cats. Could this be actually true or is it just some sort of a wild fantasy?

Can cats eat apples ?

The most convincing answer to this question is YES! Cats can actually eat apples. However funny this cats and apple combo may seem, it is true. Apples can form part of a very delicious and healthy treat for your cat.

The cat can extract some useful nutrients such as calcium, vitamins and pectin from it. Since apples are fruits, you will not find any proteins in it. It is this protein that is most essential to an obligate carnivore such as a cat.

According to some studies, the apple skin has been found to contain plant chemicals called phytonutrients. These chemicals act as antioxidants. This reduces the risk of occurrence of cancer in cats just like in humans.

So, the next time your cat shows some interest in the apple you are enjoying, do not hesitate to give her some to enjoy along. The only hindrance could be the shape of the apple fruit. Slice the fruit first before giving it to the cat.

Are there any precautions to take?

Of course, there are. Just like any other substance, apples too can harm your cat if you do not take care of a few issues. As stated earlier, cats are carnivores to the core. In as much as they would appreciate a good treat of fruits, it is not what they need to survive.

Human food should form only less than 15% of your cat food. Always ensure your cat has sufficient supply of proteins.

Most of the apple fruit is harmless to your cat. However, you should never allow the cat to eat the fruit core and the seeds. This should be followed even when giving apples to any other animal apart from cats.

The seeds are believed to contain cyanide, which can be very dangerous to your cat if consumed. Cyanide poisoning is very lethal. Just as accidents do happen, when the cat consumes the seeds, consult your vet immediately.

Preparation of the apple before the cat can eat it.

Just as you take your apple through rigorous preparations before eating it, you should do the same for your cat. Your kitty is not some sort of a dumping pit for spoilt apples. If you cannot eat the apple yourself, then the cat should not eat it at all.

Adhere to the following steps if you want to answer the “ can cats eat apples ” question on your own.

1. Thoroughly wash the fruit to remove any traces of contamination. These might be from the pesticides used during the growth of the fruit. Some of the chemicals used are toxic and can lead to poisoning of the cat.

2. All the seeds and the inner core of the fruit should be removed after washing. Only the fleshy and juicy parts of the fruit should be given to your feline friend.

3. Slice the fruit into thin sections. Give the cat a slice at a time. In this way, you can control how much the cat consumes. The quantity should be closely monitored as too much apple in one sitting can cause stomach upset in cats.

By giving a slice at a time, you are also able to monitor any potential effect it may have on the cat. It would not be wise to assume that the cat would react badly to the apple. If any such reactions occur, stop the feeding and consult your vet.

Alternative ways of serving apple to your cat.

It is very much likely that your kitty would not like the taste of a raw apple very much. The crunchy apple would provide a challenge to be chewed by cats. Instead of serving it raw, there are endless methods of making the apples more delicious and appealing to the cat.

– You can chop the fruit into very small pieces and add it evenly onto the cat’s meal. The small pieces make eating a lot easier and prevent choking of the kitty.

– Mashing the fleshy parts of the fruit is also another great idea. You then serve it together with the meal.

The list is endless. Only your imagination and wits limit you here.

If you are a cat owner and the “ can cats eat apples ” question has been troubling you for some time now, there you have it. Cats can actually eat apples, though maybe not all of them will. Don’t worry if yours does not.

You must be careful however not to give the seeds of the fruit to the cat and also feed the cat apples in moderation. Apples will not help your kitty so much besides being just a reward for a good behavior.

I hope that this piece has been enlightening in one way or another. I wish you and your feline friend a continued special relationship of mutual love.