Can Cats Eat Oranges and Tangerines? A Nutritional Guid

Oranges and tangerines are rich in vitamin C, yet both are acidic fruits. Cats have a strong aversion to the smell of acidic fruits, so they rarely eat them on their own. However, if your cat is not repelled by them, you can offer small amounts to supplement their vitamin intake. But be cautious, as excessive and prolonged consumption can strain your cat's digestive system, leading to discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, even death. It's advisable to avoid feeding your cat citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, lemons, and others, as well as grapes, which can be toxic and even fatal to cats.

Besides oranges, here are other fruits that cats should not consume:

Grapes: Contain an unknown toxin that can cause repeated vomiting and, ultimately, kidney failure, even in small amounts.

Persimmons: The seeds can lead to intestinal obstruction and inflammation in cats.

Peaches, plums, cherries, apricots: Contain cyanide, a toxic substance that can cause vomiting, intestinal obstruction, and respiratory difficulties.

Starfruit: High potassium levels can cause acute kidney failure in cats.

Avocado: Can lead to digestive issues, respiratory distress, fever, and can be fatal if consumed in large quantities.

Citrus fruits, grapefruits, lemons: These acidic fruits can irritate a cat's stomach. Longterm exposure or consumption of citrus oils can result in cell necrosis, vomiting, and even death.

Important Considerations for Feeding Fruits to Cats:

Cats with sensitive stomachs should avoid fruits to prevent diarrhea.

Fruits are high in sugar, making them unsuitable for cats with diabetes.

Overindulgence in fruits can lead to weight gain in healthy cats.

If a cat vomits after eating a particular fruit, it's a sign that their stomach may not tolerate it and they should not be given more.

By enhancing the clarity and precision of the information, and adding a touch of warmth and personalization, the article aims to provide a more engaging and informative guide for cat owners.