Did you leave out some apple juice only for your cat to drink some of it? You may be wondering if it is safe. It happens more often than you may think. Cats are naturally curious. They are likely to lick anything that is left in your glass. Apples are safe and beneficial to cats. But is it the same with apple juice? Can the high sugar content be toxic to your cat?
Can cats drink apple juice? Yes, they can. However, they should not drink too much of it. Even though apple juice is safe, its high sugar content is not recommended for cats.
Whether you are exploring new food options for your cat or you simply have too much apple juice, you may be wondering if cats can drink apple juice. If yes, how much apple juice is safe? Cats are known to be carnivorous. I understand that you may be concerned about their ability to accept and digest anything that is not meat. Keep reading to learn more.
Can Cats Drink Apple Juice?
Your cat can drink apple juice in moderation. Apples are safe and full of antioxidants that may be good for your cat’s health. They are rich in vitamins and fiber. However, apple juice also has high sugar levels which could be toxic. Excessive sugar can cause stomach upsets.
While it is okay to let your cat have a few sips of apple juice once in a while, they should not drink it every day. Excessive consumption of apple juice increases the risk of diabetes for older cats. Some apple juice brands may have toxic chemicals and preservatives.
If you choose to give your cat apple juice, read the product label and ensure that there are no harmful chemicals. If your cat gets accustomed to drinking apple juice, it may start preferring it over water. Cats that eat canned foods get a lot of the moisture they need from the food. If, however, you feed them dry foods, they need to drink water.
Cats that drink a lot of apple juice may replace water with the sugary juice which is bad for their health. The diet of cats should be rich in protein but low in carbs. Apple juice is high in carbs. After giving your cat some apple juice, brush its teeth to prevent cavities. There are special toothbrushes and toothpaste for cats.
Note that some cats may be allergic to apples. Even though apple allergies are rare, they happen. After feeding your cat apples or apple juice, watch out for signs of allergy. The most common signs are farting and vomiting. If you are looking for a safe way to introduce fiber and vitamins to your cats’ diet, I suggest that you feed your cats apples rather than apple juice. However, your cats won’t be excited about eating anything that isn’t meat. Cut the apples into small sizes that your cat can chew easily. The main benefit of feeding your cats apples instead of apple juice is that they have low sugar content. The amount of apple or apple juice you feed your cats may depend on their preference.
I recommend that you feed them apples as a treat once in a while. Give them an average of four small apple pieces every week. A vet may help you determine the amount of apple juice that is safe for your cat. When introducing apples to your cat, get rid of all seeds. Seeds are some of the most dangerous parts of the apple. They can choke your cat or get stuck between their teeth. Apple seeds have substances that could be toxic.
With apples, the fruit is the only safe part. Leaves and stems contain toxic cyanide. If it gets into the cat’s system, its cells may be unable to absorb oxygen.
If your cat is exposed to cyanide, you may start to notice the symptoms of poisoning in about 15 minutes.
Some of the most common symptoms include; difficulty breathing, vomiting, red gums, and dilation of the pupils. If you notice the symptoms, seek the help of a vet immediately.
You may also need to seek the opinion of a vet if you suspect that your cat may have drunk too much apple juice. The vet will let you know if it is safe.
Tips for Serving Apples to Cats
When served in moderation, apples can be beneficial to your cats.
I suggest that you give them pureed apples or applesauce. They are easier to chew than whole apple chunks. They also reduce the chance of apple poisoning.
Whether you choose to serve the apples whole or as puree, you must wash them carefully to get rid of all dirt, pesticides, and bacteria. Dirty apples could make your cat sick.
Apple peels are not bad for your cat. They have the same effect as the apple itself. However, your cat is highly unlikely to eat apple peels and leave out the apple.
Note that serving too many apples can make your cat sick. Give your cat small portions of the fruit in different sittings.
If you are looking for creative ways to prepare apple meals for your cat, there are many possibilities. They include:
- Slice your apples into small, chewable pieces
- Mash or puree the apples and serve them with regular cat food
- Wrap small slices of your apples in a turkey wrap
- Serve cubed apple pieces with the cat’s dry food
- Avoid giving your cat pieces of apples that have browned or appear rotten. If you leave apple pieces out for over 30 minutes, they may cause diarrhoea.
Different cats have different preferences. Some cats may not be interested in eating apples.
Do not force them. Instead, find an alternative source of vitamins. Even though apples are great, your cat doesn’t need them. There are lots of foods and supplements that work just as well.
How Much Apple Juice is Too Much
The diet of a cat is mostly carnivorous. You should be very careful when introducing anything else. The sugar in apple juice can cause diabetes or digestion problems. Even the natural sugar in apples may be bad for your cat’s health. There should be a limit to the number of apples or apple juice that a cat consumes.
Feeding your cat too many apples or apple juice might make it difficult for them to eat other foods.
If apples replace certain meals, your cat may not be getting all the nutrition that it needs. Fortunately, you won’t have trouble getting your cats to stay away from apples. They don’t have the taste receptors for sweetness.
The crunchiness of apples may excite some cats. If you aren’t careful, a cat that eats too many apples may become obese. They are also likely to get diabetes. The major symptoms of diabetes include;
- Increased thirst
- Constant urination
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
- Reduced activity and inability to jump
If you are unsure of the number of apples or apple juice that is safe for your cat, contact a vet. You should also speak to them if your cat shows any signs of diabetes.
When you introduce apples or apple juice to your cat’s diet, take note of other foods that they will be consuming. Ensure that they are not ingesting too much sugar. Avoid other treats that have high carbs or sugar concentration.
Alternative Snacks for Cats
If you are trying to introduce healthy snacks to your cat’s diet, apples are not your option. There are lots of healthy alternatives. You can always find something that your cat will like. Note that your cats are carnivores. You should, therefore, limit the number of fruits and veggies that you give them. If veggies replace regular cat meals, they may miss out on essential nutrients. Some of your options include;
· Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. It is a healthy and tasty treat that your cats will enjoy. Cook the salmon before serving it to your cat.
· Pumpkin
Pumpkin may not be the most obvious food option for cats but it is great. It has low calories and lots of fiber. You may serve pumpkin along with other cat treats. It is known to be a safe and effective treatment for cats with abnormal stools.
· Spinach
Spinach is one of the healthiest snacks for your cat. It is rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K. Even though it is healthy, spinach may not be appropriate for cats that have ever struggled with calcium oxalate bladder stones.
In summary, cats can drink apple juice. They can also eat apples. However, apple juice has a high sugar content that might cause diabetes when taken in large quantities.
Younger cats are less susceptible to diabetes than older cats. The best way to introduce apples to your cat’s diet is through applesauce.
Article by Barbara Read
Barbara Read is the heart and soul behind CatBeep.com. From her early love for cats to her current trio of feline companions, Barbara's experiences shape her site's tales and tips. While not a vet, her work with shelters offers a unique perspective on cat care and adoption.
