can cats eat fruit

Cats can eat some fruits safely, but their diet should mainly be meat-based as they are obligate carnivores. Safe fruits for cats to eat in moderation include apples (without seeds), bananas, blueberries, strawberries, melon (such as watermelon and cantaloupe), pumpkin, apricots, mango, and some berries. However, fruits should only make up less than 10% of a cat's diet because fruit contains sugar that can cause digestive upset or other health issues if overfed. Fruits that cats must avoid because they are toxic or harmful include grapes and raisins (which can cause kidney failure), cherries (contain cyanide), lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits (which have toxic compounds), and unripe tomatoes and tomato plants (contain solanine toxin). Feeding fruit to cats should always be done cautiously and in small amounts, removing any seeds or peels that could be harmful. Consult a veterinarian before introducing any new foods to a cat's diet to avoid adverse reactions.