Can Cats Eat Watermelon?

Can cats eat watermelon?

Cats can eat watermelon, but only in small amounts. Remember that cats are obligate carnivores, so their diet is primarily meat. Hence, they can’t derive much nutritional value from watermelon, and eating too much can cause digestive issues. A safe portion is typically two small cubes (about 1 inch each) of watermelon flesh.

Additionally, if your cat is diabetic or obese, it’s best to avoid watermelon altogether because of the natural sugars present in the fruit. If your cat should not eat watermelon or other fruits, ensure that your pet sitter knows those restrictions.

In this article, we will go over every question you might have about feeding your cats watermelon and even give you a list of fruits cats can eat.

Can cats eat watermelon seeds or rind?

Cats cannot eat watermelon seeds or rind. Both are a choking hazard and can get stuck in the digestive tract, causing bowel obstructions, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.  If you want to offer watermelon to your cat, stick to the flesh only and remove any seeds.

Watermelon seeds are a choking hazard due to their size relative to a cat's throat. They can obstruct the digestive tract and lead to severe complications if swallowed. Additionally, watermelon seeds contain small amounts of cyanide. While the amount is not enough to harm humans, it can cause cyanide poisoning in cats.

Likewise, the watermelon rind is tough and fibrous, making it hard for a cat’s digestive system to break it down. Consuming the rind can lead to gastrointestinal upset, which could, in severe cases, contribute to digestive blockages.

How much watermelon is too much for a cat?

A safe portion is typically one or two small cubes (about 1 inch each) of watermelon flesh. Due to its high water and sugar content, anything over that amount can lead to diarrhea or stomach discomfort.

While it’s refreshing and hydrating to humans, you should only give watermelon in small amounts because your cat’s body is not designed to process it.

Can kittens eat watermelon?

Yes, kittens can eat watermelon, but we don’t recommend it as part of their diet. Like adult cats, kittens are obligate carnivores and need a diet of protein and fats from animal sources to grow and develop. However, if you feel like offering your kitten watermelon, make sure it’s just a tiny piece of the flesh.

What other fruits can cats eat?

• Blueberries
• Strawberries
• Apples (without the seeds)
• Cantaloupe
• Bananas
• Pears (without the seeds)
• Cranberries (unsweetened)
• Peaches (without the pit)
• Cucumber
• Honeydew
• Kiwi (peeled and in small pieces)
• Nectarines (without the pit)
• Pineapple (small, coreless pieces)
• Mango (peeled and without the pit)
• Raspberries

Is watermelon good for cats?

Watermelon is not beneficial for cats, but it can be an occasional treat in small amounts. Although it is mostly water, cats already get enough moisture from their regular diet. Plus, watermelon offers no significant nutrients because cats’ digestive systems are adapted to high-protein and high-fat diets.

When weighed side-by-side, the cons of feeding your cat watermelon outweigh the pros. The natural sugar present can aggravate diabetes and contribute to unhealthy weight gain in obese cats. Watermelon’s high water content can lead to digestive issues for cats, such as diarrhea or stomach upset if consumed in excess. If vomiting does occur, consider these home remedies to help your cat recover.

Remember that every cat is unique, and although some may enjoy the taste and scent of watermelon, others may not. Don't force it if your cat turns their nose up; they're simply trying to tell you that they shouldn't eat this fruit.