Can Cats Eat Watermelon Rind or Seeds?

Can cats eat watermelon? Yes, most cats can eat small amounts of watermelon safely — but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Watermelon isn’t toxic to cats, but it’s also not a necessary part of a cat’s diet. As obligate carnivores, cats get most of their nutrients from meat, not fruit.

That said, watermelon can be a refreshing, hydrating treat for your feline friend — especially on hot days. Just be sure to feed it properly and sparingly.

Contents

Is Watermelon Safe for Cats?
What to Avoid
Is Watermelon Healthy for Cats?
How Much Watermelon Is OK?
Can Watermelon Ever Be Good for Cats?

Is Watermelon Safe for Cats?

Watermelon is generally safe for cats to eat in small amounts. The fruit is about 92 percent water, which makes it a decent occasional treat for hydration. However, cats don’t process fruit sugars the way humans do, so this is only a semi-healthy treat.

The natural sugar in watermelon can cause gastrointestinal upset if your cat eats excessive amounts. And while the flesh is usually harmless, the seeds and rind are another story.

What to Avoid

Never feed watermelon seeds or rind to cats. Seeds can pose a choking hazard or cause blockages in the digestive tract. The rind is tough to digest and may lead to digestive issues.

To safely feed watermelon, remove all seeds and rind, then cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces. Avoid giving your cat frozen watermelon unless it’s been thawed to a chewable texture.

Is Watermelon Healthy for Cats?

Cat eating watermelon — A cat can safely eat watermelon in small amounts. One of this person's key mistakes was not removing the seeds first. Sagittarius_13 / Shutterstock

Although watermelon contains vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, these nutrients don’t provide much nutritional value to cats. Most cats get what they need from balanced cat food, not fruits.

Feeding watermelon — or any human foods — should never replace a complete and balanced diet. Cats that eat too much fruit may develop vomiting or other digestive problems.

How Much Watermelon Is OK?

If you want to give watermelon as a treat, keep it minimal. One or two small pieces is enough. This rule also applies to kittens, whose digestive systems are more sensitive. Wet kitten food provides more appropriate hydration and nutrients.

Cats that react negatively to new foods should not be fed watermelon at all. Monitor your cat after trying any new food for the first time.

Can Watermelon Ever Be Good for Cats?

While it’s not necessary, watermelon can offer mild hydration and enrichment for healthy cats. Some pet parents offer it as a novelty or cooling treat. Watermelon isn’t toxic to cats, unlike citrus fruits or apple seeds, which should be avoided.

Still, watermelon is considered one of those human foods that may be fun but not functionally useful. Think of it as a sweet, juicy break from routine — not a staple.

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