What Fruits Can Cats Eat?

If you've ever caught your cat sniffing around your fruit bowl, you might’ve wondered: “What fruits can cats eat?”, “Can cats eat fruit?”, or ” Should cats eat fruit?” The short answer is yes — in moderation, and with the right fruits.

While cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need animal-based protein to thrive, some fruits can be a safe and beneficial occasional treat. Let’s take a look at which fruits cats can have — and why some of these make their way into quality cat food recipes.

Remember that treats and additional food items at mealtime should never exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake.

Jocelyn LambieJunior Nutritionist

Can Cats Have Fruit?

Yes, cats can have fruit, but it’s important to offer only certain kinds, in small amounts. Unlike dogs, cats don’t have taste receptors for sweetness¹, so they’re not necessarily drawn to fruit like we are. That said, fruits can offer fibre, antioxidants, and hydration — all of which can contribute to your cat’s overall health when included in balanced recipes or served carefully as treats.

What Fruits Can Cats Eat?

Here's a list of fruits that make a safe treat for cats. You can also find these ingredients in some premium cat food recipes.

1. Apples

Apples are a great source of dietary fibre and vitamin C. If you’re sharing a small bite with your cat, make sure it’s peeled and seed-free. The seeds contain cyanide and should always be avoided.

2. Bananas

Bananas are full of potassium, an essential mineral for cats, along with dietary fibre, protein, vitamin C and B vitamins. Most cats aren’t banana fans (thanks again to those taste buds), but if yours is curious, a tiny bite now and then is just fine.

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Cat food that’s made simply with fresh meats and fish and nutrient-rich fruits, including everything mentioned here—apples, bananas, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, pomegranate, papayas, and pumpkin!

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3. Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants and dietary fibre, blueberries can help support your cat’s healthy immune system and good digestion. Some cats even enjoy batting them around before taking a nibble.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries are a great source of antioxidants vitamin C and E, dietary fibre, and are a natural source of polyphenols and proanthocyanins, which have antimicrobial properties that can help support urinary tract health.

5. Blackberries

These small berries are rich in antioxidants vitamin C and E, and dietary fibre. While not a common snack, they’re a safe and nutritious fruit cats can have occasionally.

6. Pomegranate

This antioxidant-rich fruit can help support cell health and immune function — though not all cats love the texture. It’s also a good source of dietary fibre that can help support good digestion.

7. Papaya

Papaya is a gentle fruit packed with the digestive enzyme papain that can help support good digestion. It’s also a source of dietary fibre and essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C.

8. Pumpkin

Yes, pumpkin is a fruit! And a fantastic one for cats, with many essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and E, and beneficial fibre.

So, Should Cats Eat Fruit?

Should cats eat fruit? Despite their obligate carnivore status, cats can still benefit from nutrients found in fruits. When fruit is part of a balanced recipe or offered as a small treat, it can be beneficial. Stick to cat-safe fruits, avoid anything with seeds or pits, and always introduce new foods gradually.

When in doubt, consult your vet before introducing something new. And remember, cats get most of their nutrients from meat, so fruit should be a side note — not the main event. The safest way to get the benefits of these nutritious foods is to find a healthy cat food that includes them as part of their ingredients.