Can Cats Eat Apples? (Yes and No – I Can Explain)

Who doesn’t like apples, right? They are healthy, quick and easy to eat, and delicious. However, ‘can cats eat apples without any ill effects too?’

Is your kitty one of those curious cats that has a nibble on anything you leave on a plate? Or, maybe you’ve been feeding them apple pieces?

Either way, if your cat likes the taste of apple and eats some at any opportunity it’s a good idea to do some research into how safe apples are for them to eat.

The good news for you is that I’ve done that research for you!

Here is everything you need to know about apples, cats, and how the two go together.

Can Cats Eat Apples?

If you’re looking for a short answer – Yes, in small amounts cats can eat apples and shouldn’t have any ill effects.

There is more to the story though. The core and seeds are not to be given to cats under any circumstances.

The core and seeds contain a small amount of cyanide (proof here). I’m not trying to freak you out, cyanide is a scary word but don’t worry if you’ve eaten the seeds before it’s a trace amount that is fine for humans.

It’s not fine however for cats and other small animals. They are much smaller than we are and they digestive systems operate differently, so if you’re giving you cat apple check closely for seeds.

Keep Rotten Apples/Fruit Away from Cats

I’m not here to judge, we’ve all seen fruit go bad quickly in the fruit bowl so I’m not suggesting you leave rotten fruit around the home.

But think about the wider picture. If there is any chance of your cat (that already likes apples) getting hold of rotting apples or other fruits inside or outside your home do something about it.

When apples are turning bad they smell a lot stronger and go softer. This makes it easier for cats to eat, but there is a high risk of diarrhea and stomach upset from the bacteria.

If you wanted some evidence that rotten apples are bad there was a study conducted here.

If there are apple trees in your yard or nearby fields this is a potential problem. But there is only so much you can do to keep an eye on your kitty.

So, Should You Give Your Cat Apple?

Like I already said, a little bit of apple is fine and if your cat really enjoys it then it’s always satisfying to see a cat enjoying something. This applies to a lot of fruits, like mangoes and kiwis for example.

If your cat does enjoy apple and you want to share some the least you can do is prepare it and make it easy for them.

So, give the apple a good wash and slice off a little piece. The skin in fine, but I wouldn’t give them much or any of it as it’s not really the good stuff they are after.

You can hold it and let them lick the apple or just hand it over and let them eat it. Don’t leave apples out as it will attract flies and if you forget about it it’ll go bad.

Some Other Commonly Asked Questions About Cats and Apples

Can Cats Eat Applesauce?

A lot of cats will eat applesauce given the chance, but it’s not a good idea so I have to say no to them eating applesauce.

A little bit won’t do any harm so don’t worry if you caught your kitty licking a plate that was left out.

But it’s a processed food and has way too many additives and sugar in for cats. Simply put it’s just not a treat that they need to be eating so keep it well out of their reach!

Can Cats Lick Apples?

I’m sure they can lick apples, and some will! On a serious note, there is nothing wrong with a cat licking an apple – as long as the apple was washed clean.

Typically apples from stores will still have some pesticides on them. Not to mention other bits of dirt and grease from being handled while in transit and in the store.

This also means you can’t eat the apple so it’s a bit of a waste. I wouldn’t let my cats lick apples, so I recommend correcting this behavior.

Can Cats Eat Granny Smith Apples?

Granny Smith apples, Red Delicious, Honeycrisp….whatever the variety of apple the rules are still the same.

Slice off small pieces as give as an occasional treat and make sure they don’t eat the hard stalk, core, or seeds.

Can Cats Have Apple Juice?

No. For the same reasons as applesauce, you shouldn’t give apple juice to your cat. Most apple juices are actually full of sugars and preservatives unless you have the freshly squeezed stuff.

It’s literally full of stuff that isn’t ideal for cats and in large amounts will cause them some stomach issues.

I don’t have apple juice at home myself, but I can image cats being attracted to the sweet scent. So, do you best to keep the temptation away from them.

I’ve covered some other human foods cats are attracted to and whether or not they are harmful; check some of these grapes, ham, tuna, and more here. This article about cats and pumpkin pie is particularly interesting!