Why cats should not have it
Citrus fruit, especially the peel, contains essential oils and other substances that can give a cat vomiting, diarrhoea or drooling. A cat's liver breaks these substances down more slowly than a person's, so cats are more sensitive.
The flesh is less irritating than the peel, but it is high in acid and sugar, which a cat does not need. Cats dislike the smell of citrus. Citrus essential oils in scent diffusers or cleaning products are harmful to cats too.
What to watch out for
- Essential oils and acids can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or drooling.
- The peel and seeds are hard to digest and more irritating than the flesh.
- Citrus essential oils in scent diffusers and cleaning products are harmful to cats.
- If your cat keeps vomiting, has diarrhoea, drools heavily, is lethargic or is not eating, contact a vet.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- 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