Did your cat just snatch a piece of banana off your plate before you could react? No worries, fabCat – that’s just your average feline mischief. Cats are curious creatures, especially when it comes to culinary experiments. 🙂 Today we’re diving into the world of fruits and veggies: which are safe for your whiskered companion, and which should stay far away from their food bowl. Ready to explore with us?

Meat? Absolutely! Veggies? Just a treat!

Cats are obligate carnivores – their bodies are built to digest and absorb nutrients from animal-based foods. Plant products are not essential to their diet and, if given in excess, can be harmful. That’s why it’s so important to check the ingredient list of the food you’re putting in your cat’s bowl. The feline digestive system struggles with too much fiber, sugar, or starch – ingredients often used as fillers in lower-quality cat foods. Too many of them can lead to obesity and other health problems.

But does that mean fruits and veggies are a total no-go? Of course not! Safe options, given in moderation, can offer an extra dose of vitamins and minerals. Lots of cats genuinely enjoy them. The keyword here is safety. Some fruits and veggies are strictly off-limits and even toxic. So if your kitty is a frequent kitchen assistant, this is need-to-know info, fabCat!

Fruits and veggies that are safe for cats

Picture this: You’re slicing fruit, making tea, and for one second you look away… and your cat is already darting off with a slice of cucumber in their mouth. What now, fabCat? Chase them down or let them enjoy the prize?

If it’s one of the fruits or veggies on the list below, relax. A lick or nibble now and then is just fine, as long as it’s a tiny portion:

• Apple – core and seeds removed (as the seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide, toxic to cats). The flesh itself is a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
• Banana – safe in small amounts, and only without the peel. It’s high in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber (but also sugar!).
  Blueberries, cranberries, strawberries – well-washed and de-stemmed, these can be a fun, occasional snack.
• Pear – seedless, just like apples. But go easy – fruits contain sugar, which your cat doesn’t need.
  Watermelon – peeled and seedless? Totally fine.
• Pumpkin – cooked, unseasoned, and seedless. Rich in fiber and vitamins, and some cats adore the taste. It’s even great for mixing into food when your cat gets picky.
  Carrot – if your cat’s into it, you can offer a little cooked carrot from time to time.
• Cucumber – peeled. If a slice goes missing from your sandwich, there’s no need to panic.
  

You can also occasionally offer broccoli, green peas, and zucchini. Just remember: these should never become a regular part of your cat’s diet – they should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. The main source of energy and protein for cats should always be meat. Nature knows best when it comes to our tiny predators. 🐾

Fruits and veggies cats should NEVER eat

Time to talk villains – the fruits and veggies no cat should ever find in their food bowl. These can be entirely or partially toxic and may lead to serious health issues or even death, even in tiny amounts. Don’t take the risk, fabCat! Keep your cat far away from:

Grapes and raisins, avocado, cherries, citrus fruits, peach, apricot, and plum pits (and most seeds from any fruit, even “safe” ones), garlic, onion, chives, leek, raw potatoes, the green parts of tomatoes and unripe tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers – especially hot ones, cabbage and brussels sprouts – they cause gas and bloating. Also, avoid spinach – it contains oxalates, which can irritate your cat’s urinary system

If your cat already managed to steal and eat a forbidden fruit or veggie, don’t wait and see – act fast, fabCat. Call your vet immediately to confirm the level of risk, and prepare to head in just in case. Watch your cat closely for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or any strange behavior. Once you reach the vet, describe everything your cat ate and any symptoms in detail.

A few final meows…

Cat curiosity knows no bounds – there’s always something new to sniff, sneak, or steal. And the kitchen? That’s prime real estate for feline mischief. All we can do is remove the dangers ahead of time and allow them to safely explore where it’s safe. A well-prepared fabCat is always a step ahead 🙂

So tell us, does your kitty like to swipe snacks from the kitchen, fabCats? Let us know in the comments – and see you next week!