Why only in moderation for cats
Apple flesh is not toxic to cats. It contains water, fibre and a few vitamins, but a cat is a true carnivore and gets everything it needs from food of animal origin. A cat cannot taste sweetness, so an apple is no special treat to it.
Apple seeds contain substances that can release cyanide during digestion, so the seeds, core, stalk and leaves must be removed. Too large a piece can upset digestion, and a hard piece can get stuck in the throat.
How to give it
- Peel it and take out the seeds and core.
- Cut the flesh into very small pieces.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your cat feels.
- Give it only now and then, not instead of food.
What to watch out for
- The seeds contain substances that can release cyanide.
- The core and stalk are hard and can get stuck in the throat or gut.
- Too much can cause diarrhoea or vomiting.
- Apple pies, sweetened purées and juice are not suitable for a cat.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Flesh
In moderationA small piece of peeled apple flesh is fine for a cat now and then.
-
Seeds
Not safeThe seeds contain substances that can release cyanide, so they need to be taken out.
-
Core and stalk
Not safeThe hard core and stalk can get stuck in the throat or gut.
What to give instead
- Cucumbers Yes, a small piece of fresh cucumber is harmless to cats, but pickled cucumbers are not suitable for them. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin without sugar or spices is harmless to cats and fine as a small treat. Safe
- Carrots Yes, plain cooked carrot is harmless to cats, but cats have no need for vegetables, so give it only as a small treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
The "Cat treats" category compares prices for 3,884 products across shops. It is a product category, not a recommendation of what to give.