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Tailwise

Fruit

Can cats eat pears?

A little In moderation

A small piece of ripe, peeled pear is safe for cats, without the core or seeds.

Why Amygdalin in seeds

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.

How much, how often

A small cube.

Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories

Serving it safely

  • Core and remove all seeds
  • Slice into bite-sized pieces
  • Avoid tinned pears in syrup

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs Safe

Yes. Ripe pear flesh is a sweet, fibre-rich treat for dogs. Remove the core and seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide-releasing compounds.

How much: A few slices.

Can dogs eat pears?

Cats In moderation

A small piece of ripe, peeled pear is safe for cats, without the core or seeds.

How much: A small cube.

The details

Pears are closely related to apples and the same rules apply. A few swallowed seeds are unlikely to cause harm, but it is sensible to core the fruit. Very ripe pears are soft and suit older dogs with dental problems.

Safer treats your cat can have instead

Questions owners ask

Can cats eat pears?

A small piece of ripe, peeled pear is safe for cats, without the core or seeds.

How much pears can a cat have?

A small cube.

What makes pears risky for cats?

Amygdalin in seeds.

What should I do if my cat ate pears?

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 pears safe for dogs too?

Yes. Ripe pear flesh is a sweet, fibre-rich treat for dogs. Remove the core and seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide-releasing compounds.

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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