Kiwi is a sweet, tropical fruit that many people enjoy as a snack or in smoothies. But can cats eat Kiwi, too? As you probably guessed, the answer isn’t straightforward.

While Kiwi isn’t necessarily toxic to cats, there are some potential risks and downsides to feeding Kiwi to your feline friend. Read on to learn more about whether cats can eat Kiwi and the potential benefits and drawbacks.

Can Cats Eat Kiwi?

The short answer is yes; cats can eat Kiwi. Kiwi is not toxic or poisonous to cats. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should be feeding Kiwi to your cat regularly.

Kiwi contains a lot of natural sugar, which most cats have difficulty digesting properly. The high fiber content found in Kiwi may also cause digestive upset in some cats.

Additionally, the skin of the kiwi fruit contains tiny amounts of a compound called actinidin. Actinidin is a type of protease enzyme that helps break down proteins.

But in large amounts, actinidin can be an irritant and cause mouth and throat inflammation. So if you do share Kiwi with your cat, be sure to remove the skin first.

Do Cats Like Kiwis?

In general, cats are not known to be particularly attracted to or interested in kiwis, regardless of their individual preferences.

Cats’ taste receptors are more sensitive to meat-based flavors, and their natural carnivorous instincts make them prefer animal protein. Some cats may be curious about fruits like kiwis, but they aren’t usually fond of them.

Even if a cat shows interest in kiwi, it should only be offered as an occasional treat in small quantities, considering their specific nutritional needs and digestive capacities.

See also: Can Cats Eat Rabbit Food? The Truth Revealed

Is Kiwi Safe For Cats?

Kiwi is generally considered safe for cats in small amounts. Although kiwi is not toxic to cats, caution should be exercised, and the cat’s needs should be considered. The following points should be kept in mind:

• Moderation: Kiwi should only be offered to cats in small amounts as an occasional treat. It should not replace their regular balanced diet.
• Skin and Seeds: Before giving kiwi to your cat, make sure to remove the skin and seeds. The skin can be a choking hazard, and the seeds may cause digestive issues.
• Digestive Sensitivity: Cats have a limited ability to digest plant-based foods due to their unique digestive systems. Some cats may experience digestive upset if they consume large quantities of kiwi.
• Sugar Content: Kiwi contains natural sugars, and excessive sugar intake can be harmful to cats, especially those with diabetes or weight issues. It’s best to avoid feeding kiwis to cats with such conditions.
• Allergies: While rare, some cats may have allergies to kiwi. Monitor your cat for any signs of allergic reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching, when introducing kiwi or any new food.

You should consult with your veterinarian before adding kiwi to your cat’s diet if you are unsure whether it will benefit them.

Is my cat eating kiwi? What should I do?

A few steps can be taken if your cat snatches a kiwi or accidentally eats it:

1. Observe

You should closely monitor your cat for any immediate adverse reactions or signs of distress. You should look out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, or changes in behavior.

2. Quantity Consumed

You should consider how much kiwi your cat ate. Small pieces or bites are generally not harmful. If your cat consumes significant quantities of the skin and seeds, extra precautions are advisable.

3. Contact your Veterinarian

If your cat displays any concerning symptoms or has ingested a large amount of kiwi, contact your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can provide guidance based on your cat’s health condition and advise you on what to do next.

4. Maintain Hydration

Keep your cat hydrated by providing fresh water. By doing so, you can support their digestive system and dilute any adverse effects that may occur.

5. Monitor for Changes

Watch your cat closely over the next 24 to 48 hours. Observe any lingering symptoms or changes in behavior, appetite, or litter box habits. In case of any unusual symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian.

See also: Sugar Water for Sick Cats: A Natural Remedy for Feline Health

Kiwi Benefits for Cats

Kiwi is not an essential part of a cat’s diet, but it can offer some benefits when eaten in moderation. The following are a few benefits of kiwi for cats:

• Vitamin C: Kiwi is a good source of vitamin C, which can support the immune system of cats. Adequate vitamin C intake can help strengthen their immune response and overall health.
• Fiber: Kiwi contains dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help prevent constipation in cats. Adequate fiber intake promotes healthy bowel movements and supports gastrointestinal health.
• Hydration: Kiwi has a high water content, which can contribute to your cat’s overall hydration. Proper hydration is important for maintaining healthy organ function and overall well-being.
• Antioxidants: Kiwi contains antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants contribute to overall cellular health and may have long-term benefits for cats.

Cats should consider the benefits of kiwi in the context of their overall diet. It is true that these benefits exist, but they can be obtained from other sources that are more suitable for cats, such as their regular cat food.

Cats have specific nutritional needs and digestive capabilities, so kiwi should only be given as a treat occasionally.

Risks and Downsides to Feeding Kiwi

While an occasional kiwi treat is unlikely to cause problems for most healthy cats, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind:

• Digestive upset – The high fiber and sugar in Kiwi may cause diarrhea or intestinal upset in some cats, especially if given in large amounts.
• Allergies – Though rare, some cats may be allergic or intolerant to compounds found in Kiwi. Monitor for signs of an allergic reaction like itching, hives, etc.
• Weight gain – Since Kiwi is high in natural sugars, overfeeding can potentially lead to unhealthy weight gain in cats.
• Dental issues – The acidic nature of Kiwi may erode tooth enamel over time, especially if fed daily vs. occasionally.
• Actinidin – While a non-issue in small amounts, the enzymes in kiwi skin could irritate the mouth and esophagus if directly ingested.

How many kiwis can Cats eat Safely?

Kiwis can be safely eaten by cats occasionally as a treat. It’s important to keep in mind that kiwis shouldn’t make up a large portion of their diet. Start by offering your cat a tiny piece of peeled kiwi and observe his reaction.

If there are no adverse reactions, you can gradually increase the portion size over time. It is important to practice moderation and not exceed the recommended amount.

Each cat is unique, so it’s best to consult with a veterinarian for specific guidance on portion sizes based on your cat’s individual needs and health condition.

See also: How Long Does Ketamine Last in Cats?

Can Cats Eat Kiwi Skin and Seeds?

Cats should not eat kiwi seeds or skin. Kiwi skin is tough and difficult for cats to digest, potentially causing digestive upset. If you want to feed your cat kiwi, you should remove the skin.

Additionally, eating large quantities of kiwis may cause gastrointestinal blockages or choking hazards. You should only feed your cat small, manageable pieces of flesh from the kiwi fruit to ensure their safety.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, Kiwi should only be an occasional treat for cats. The high sugar, fiber, and acidity mean Kiwi does not make an appropriate everyday food. But as the occasional nibble, Kiwi can provide some beneficial nutrition and antioxidants. Just be sure to introduce new foods slowly, watch for any signs of intolerance, and practice good dental hygiene. By following basic precautions and feeding kiwi in moderation, most cats can enjoy this sweet, healthy fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can cats eat Kiwi every day?

No, Kiwi should only be given occasionally, not daily. The high sugar and acidic content can lead to weight gain and dental issues if fed regularly. Limit Kiwi to a few small pieces 1-2 times per week at most.

2. Is Kiwi bad for cats?

Kiwi is not toxic or poisonous to cats, but the high fiber content can cause digestive upset. The sugar content can also contribute to obesity if overfed. As long as you moderate portions and watch for any intolerance, Kiwi is safe for most cats.

3. What happens if a cat eats a kiwi?

When eaten in small amounts, most cats will experience no issues with Kiwi. Some cats may get mild diarrhea from the fiber or experience vomiting if they eat too much. Allergies are possible but rare. Just introduce new foods slowly and discontinue use if any symptoms develop.

4. Can kittens eat Kiwi?

Kittens under 12 months old have developing digestive systems and likely won’t tolerate Kiwi, as well as adult cats. Wait until your kitten is at least 1 year old before introducing Kiwi. Start with just a tiny piece and watch carefully for any digestive upset.

5. Is Kiwi high in sugar for cats?

Yes, Kiwi is relatively high in natural sugar compared to other fruits. A medium kiwi contains about 15 grams of sugar. Cats have a harder time regulating blood sugar levels, so Kiwi should only be fed occasionally vs. daily to prevent obesity or diabetes.

In Conclusion

While cats can eat Kiwi in small amounts, this sweet, acidic fruit is best reserved as an occasional treat. Be sure to remove the skin first since the actinidin enzymes may cause mouth irritation. Check for signs of digestive upset or allergies any time you introduce new foods. Practice portion control and good dental hygiene if feeding fruits like Kiwi. Overall, the nutritional benefits of Kiwi can outweigh the potential risks when fed responsibly and in moderation. But Kiwi should never make up a significant part of your cat’s diet on a regular basis.

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