A common question cat parents often have is, can cats eat oranges? No, cats shouldn’t be fed oranges! Giving your cat oranges could be one of the worst decisions to make. Oranges are poisonous to felines since they are rich in citric acid, sugar, essential oils, and other toxic compounds. So, cats should not consume oranges as they can experience unpleasant health issues and require immediate visits to the vet. In this blog, you will learn why oranges are rotten for cats and what to do if your cat has consumed one.
Is Orange Safe for Cats?
No, oranges are not at all safe for your feline friend. Though oranges come packed with citric acid, which is incredibly beneficial for the human immune system, they are severely harmful to cats. Here’s why you should never give this fruit to your feline friend:
- Toxic Compounds
Toxic compounds such as limonene and linalool are mainly found in the orange peels. These compounds are highly unsuitable for cats and lead to various health problems.
- High Sugar Content
Sugar is not beneficial for cats. Since oranges are packed with high quantities of sugar, giving them to your cat can hamper their digestive system, as cats’ digestive systems are not developed like humans’ to digest a high-carb diet. It can also lead to obesity and weight management problems.
- Acidic in Nature
You must know that oranges are highly acidic. So, if your cat consumes this fruit, there is a high chance of an upset stomach and frequent bowel movements. It can also lead to vomiting in cats.
3 Signs Your Cat Has Eaten Oranges
How will you know if your cat has already sneaked into a few pieces of orange without your knowledge? Here are three signs to know:
1. Vomiting
If you suddenly notice your cat vomiting a lot, your feline friend has consumed oranges without your knowledge.
2. Diarrhea
Since oranges are notorious for inducing stomach problems in cats, consuming oranges can be a reason if your pet suddenly experiences diarrhea.
3. Skin Irritation
The chemical substance psoralens in orange peels and seeds can cause skin irritation in cats. If your cat has red or irritated skin, it might have consumed oranges.
What Do You Do If Your Cat Eats Oranges?
If your cat has consumed a small portion of orange flesh, let it rest for a while and provide it with an adequate supply of water. However, if you find your cat continuously throwing up or showing other signs of sickness, contact the vet for assistance immediately. You can use Amazon Basics 2-Door Cat Travel Carrier, a completely safe and sturdy carrier, to carry your cat to the vet to make it feel relaxed and comfortable on the journey.
What are the Safe Fruits for Cats?
Here are some safe fruits that you can include in your cat’s diet instead of oranges in limited quantities:
| Fruits | Health Benefits |
| Mango | Mango can help boost the immune system of cats. |
| Watermelon | Watermelon can keep cats well-hydrated. |
| Blueberries | This type of berry can significantly improve joint health and overall immunity in cats. |
Conclusion
Giving your feline friends a piece of orange to snack on can be a colossal blunder! Although cats hate the citric smell of oranges, their curious nature might lead them to eat one. So, stay aware and consult the vet in case of medical emergencies from consuming oranges.
