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Tailwise

Fruit

Can cats eat oranges?

No Toxic

The oils and psoralens in citrus peel, leaves and flesh are toxic to cats, and most dislike the smell anyway.

Why Essential oils and psoralens (mostly in the peel)

Photo: Dious (public domain) via flickr

If your cat ate some

  1. A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
  2. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.

Signs to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Drooling
  • Skin sensitivity

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs In moderation

A segment or two is fine. Oranges are acidic and sugary, so large amounts can upset the stomach.

How much: One or two segments.

Can dogs eat oranges?

Cats Toxic

No. The oils and psoralens in citrus peel, leaves and flesh are toxic to cats, and most dislike the smell anyway.

Safer treats your cat can have instead

Questions owners ask

Can cats eat oranges?

No. The oils and psoralens in citrus peel, leaves and flesh are toxic to cats, and most dislike the smell anyway.

What makes oranges risky for cats?

Essential oils and psoralens (mostly in the peel).

What are the signs to watch for in cats?

vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, skin sensitivity.

What should I do if my cat ate oranges?

A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.

Is oranges safe for dogs too?

A segment or two is fine. Oranges are acidic and sugary, so large amounts can upset the stomach.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: people foods to avoid
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: food hazards
  3. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines

Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts

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