If you have a sensitive kitten at home, you’ve probably seen them ask for food or take food off your plate. If that’s the case, you’ve no doubt pondered whether cats are allowed to eat apples or whether eating apples is harmless to cats.
Can My Cat Eat Apples?
Your cat can eat apples. However, apples must be properly cooked before cats can safely consume them. Apple stems, leaves, and pits are harmful to cats.
Before giving an apple to your cat, you should remove all the seeds, leaves, and stems. Apple seeds contain cyanide, a very toxic chemical that can cause serious health problems in your cat. Now relax! Although apple seeds are low in cyanide, do not feed them to your cat. If your cat eats apple stalks, leaves, or seeds, call your vet immediately.
The Health Benefits of Apples for Cats
The antioxidant content in apples is particularly high, although they are an important source of vitamins (especially vitamins A and C) and minerals.
Quercetin
It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer properties. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in apples that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Research on how this vital antioxidant might benefit humans is still in its early stages.
Chlorogenic acid
Chlorogenic acid, a weight-loss antioxidant found in coffee and apples, is a powerful fat-burning compound.
Catechin
In some preliminary tests, catechin has shown that it improves both muscle function and cognitive functions.
Apples are credited with other nutritional benefits in addition to their antioxidant properties, which are attributed to their phytonutrient content. Some studies have found that they may help prevent colon cancer, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease in some people.
How Can I Feed My Cat Apples?
After you have removed the leaves, stems, and seeds from the apple, you should wash the fruit thoroughly. During the production process, many orchards use pesticides that are harmful to your pet if consumed.
When feeding your cat apples, exercise moderation. Eating too many apples can cause an upset stomach. To get them to eat fruit, sprinkle a few small slices of apple over their usual food to entice them to taste it. To make it easier for your pet to eat, cut the food into smaller pieces. This will help prevent choking. Puree or porridge in conjunction with the usual food is an excellent substitute for apple slices.
How Many Apples Can a Cat Eat?
As with any new meal, you should only feed your cat a modest amount the first time – half an inch is enough. After that, keep an eye on your cat for 24-48 hours to make sure he doesn’t get sick. If all goes well, your cat can eat more apples.
Always make sure your cat does not get more than 10% of their daily calorie intake from treats. This means that a 10 pound cat in peak condition should eat no more than a quarter of an apple a day. If she gets other rewards, she needs less, but an apple is a lot for a little cat! A few small pieces sprinkled over the meal are all you need.