Can Cats Eat Oranges? More Importantly, Why Are You Asking?

cat with fruit — We'll be honest: None of these fruits are appetizing to this cat. Also, the essential oils found in oranges contain toxic chemical compounds that present a danger to felines. Ge JiaJun / Getty Images

Oranges are a popular snack for humans, packed with vitamin C and sweet, tangy flavor. But can cats eat oranges? The short answer is no, cats should not eat oranges.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their digestive systems are built for meat. Unlike humans, they don't need fruit in their diet, and citrus fruits like oranges can cause more harm than good.

Contents

Why Oranges Are a Big No for Cats
What Happens If a Cat Eats Orange
Why Vitamin C Isn’t a Selling Point for Cats
What Pet Parents Should Do Instead

Why Oranges Are a Big No for Cats

Oranges contain essential oils and citric acid, both of which are considered toxic to cats. These compounds can cause digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, they can even lead to central nervous system depression, which affects coordination and alertness.

Even the smell of citrus can be overwhelming to most cats. That’s why orange peels are sometimes used in homemade cat repellents.

The skin, seeds, and pith contain higher concentrations of toxic compounds, making them particularly dangerous.

What Happens If a Cat Eats Orange

If your feline friend sneaks a bite of orange flesh, they might just experience an upset stomach. Symptoms like drooling, vomiting or a lack of appetite are common.

But if they consume larger amounts or chew on orange peels, the situation could become more serious.

In cases of orange poisoning, call a veterinarian immediately. Signs of toxicity include trembling, lethargy and uncoordinated movement. Quick action can prevent lasting damage to your pet’s nervous system and is crucial to give your cat the best chance at a full recovery.

Why Vitamin C Isn’t a Selling Point for Cats

Unlike humans, cats produce their own vitamin C. That means they don't need to get it from foods like oranges.

The idea that fruits add health benefits to a cat's diet doesn't hold up. In fact, the high sugar content in oranges can contribute to obesity, diabetes and other health conditions.

While a teeny-tiny piece of orange flesh might be safe for most cats, the nutritional content doesn't offer any real benefit. It's better to stick with cat-safe treats that support a balanced diet.

What Pet Parents Should Do Instead

Cat eating banana — If you insist on feeding fruit to an obligate carnivore, you could do worse than bananas. Allen Simon / Getty Images

If you're looking to diversify your cat's diet, consider other foods that are safe for cats. Some fruits like blueberries and bananas are less likely to cause harm when given in small amounts. But even these should be offered sparingly.

Avoid feeding your cat grapes, raisins or any citrus fruits. Always consult a veterinary expert before introducing human foods into your pet's diet. And keep an eye out for any signs of gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions.

Remember, just because a food is healthy for humans doesn't mean it's safe for cats. Their bodies are built differently, and their needs are specific. When in doubt, check with your vet.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.