Can cats eat applesauce? It’s a question that crosses every curious cat owner’s mind when those big, curious eyes catch sight of your fruity snack. Applesauce may seem harmless, even healthy, but not all human treats translate well into feline-friendly bites.
Cats have unique dietary needs, and understanding what’s safe (and what’s not) is crucial for their health. Whether you’re considering plain applesauce or something straight from the store shelf, let’s dive into what works, what doesn’t, and how to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Is Applesauce Even Safe for Cats?
Short answer: It depends. Long answer? Well, buckle up.
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are all about the meat life. They don’t actually need fruit or sugary stuff in their diet. But that doesn’t mean every fruit-based thing is a no-go. Applesauce can be okay for cats in small amounts, as long as it’s plain and doesn’t have any added junk like sugar or cinnamon or, heaven forbid, artificial sweeteners like xylitol. That stuff is a hard no.
Here’s the deal:
- Plain Applesauce – Totally fine in tiny amounts
- Flavored or Sweetened Applesauce – Hard pass. Your cat’s tummy can’t handle all that sugar or those spices.
Cats are sensitive little critters, and their digestive systems are nothing like ours. So even if you can chow down on a bowl of cinnamon applesauce without batting an eye, your feline buddy might end up with an upset tummy just from sniffing it too hard.
Why Does My Cat Like Apple Sauce?
You ever notice how cats are straight-up nosy? They wanna smell, paw, and sometimes taste whatever you’re eating. Applesauce isn’t something they’re naturally drawn to – it’s not fish, chicken, or anything remotely meaty, after all. But cats are curious by nature, and sometimes they just wanna try your stuff.
That said, cats can’t taste sweet things. Yep, no sweet tooth in those little mouths! So, if they’re sniffing around your applesauce, it’s probably more about the texture or the smell than the actual taste.
Benefits of Applesauce for Cats (If Any)
Alright, so applesauce isn’t exactly a feline superfood, but if it’s plain, it’s not the devil either. Apples (the main ingredient, duh) do have some perks.
Here’s what’s good:
- Fiber – Apples have fiber, and a smidge of it might help a constipated kitty. Just don’t overdo it, or you’ll be dealing with the opposite problem.
- Vitamins – Apples come with vitamins like A and C, which are cool for humans but not super essential for cats. Still, a tiny boost doesn’t hurt.
- Hydration – Applesauce has water content, and hydration is always a win. Especially if your cat’s one of those “water bowl? Never heard of her” types.
But listen, these benefits are super minimal. Cats get all the nutrients they need from a balanced diet of high-quality cat food. Applesauce is, at best, a bonus snack.
The Risks of Applesauce for Cats
Now for the not-so-fun part. Applesauce might seem harmless, but there are risks if you’re not careful.
- Added Sugar – Too much sugar is bad news for cats. It can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health probs.
- Artificial Sweeteners – If your applesauce has xylitol, throw it in the trash. That stuff is toxic to cats and can cause severe issues like liver failure.
- Spices and Flavors – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and other common applesauce spices? Not great for cats. Cinnamon, for example, can irritate their mouths and cause stomach upset.
- Stomach Upset – Even plain applesauce can be too much for a cat if they’re not used to it. Diarrhea, vomiting, or just general discomfort can happen.
So, Can Cats Eat Applesauce? The Verdict
Yes, they can, but should they? Meh, probably not a regular thing. If your cat seems really interested and you’re dying to share, a tiny lick or a fingertip-sized dollop of plain, unsweetened applesauce is okay. But don’t make it a habit.
Cats don’t need applesauce, and there are way better treats out there that are actually made for their little carnivorous selves.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Applesauce Accidentally
Okay, so you left your applesauce unattended, and now your cat’s got their whiskers in it. Don’t panic.
- Check the Ingredients – Look at the label. If it’s plain and unsweetened, your cat’s probably fine. Just keep an eye on them for any weird behavior or upset tummy symptoms.
- Spiced or Sweetened Applesauce? – Call your vet. If it’s got xylitol or heavy spices, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Most of the time, a little accidental applesauce isn’t gonna be a catastrophe. Cats are tougher than we give them credit for, but don’t push your luck.
Healthier Treat Options for Cats
If you’re looking to spoil your feline friend, skip the applesauce and go for something that actually benefits them.
Try these:
- Cooked Chicken or Turkey – Plain and unseasoned. Cats love it.
- Cat-Safe Treats – There are so many options at pet stores, all made with your cat’s health in mind.
- A Little Tuna Juice – Not too much, but a splash of tuna water can make their day.
- Cat Grass – Yep, it’s a thing. Some cats go wild for it.
Miracle Care Cat-A’bout Cat Grass For Indoor Cats
DIY Applesauce for Cats (If You Really Wanna Go There)
Alright, maybe you’re dead set on giving your cat a taste of applesauce. Fine, but let’s do it right. Store-bought applesauce usually has added junk, so making it yourself is the safest bet.
Here’s how:
- Peel and core a fresh apple. Make sure there are no seeds or stem left. Apple seeds are toxic to cats.
- Steam the apple until it’s soft. No sugar, no spices, no nonsense.
- Mash it up or blend it with a little water to get that applesauce texture.
- Offer a tiny amount to your cat and watch their reaction.
And remember, this is a once-in-a-while treat. Not a regular menu item.
What Can Cats Eat?
Cats thrive on a high-protein, meat-based diet. Here are safe foods for cats:
- Meats: Cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or fish (plain, unseasoned)
- Vegetables: Small amounts of steamed carrots, peas, or green beans
- Cat-Specific Treats: Designed to meet their dietary needs
- Fruits (Occasionally): Small portions of banana, blueberries, or melon
Avoid giving your cat dairy, chocolate, onions, garlic, or anything seasoned or processed.
What Fruits Can Cats Eat?
Cats can eat small amounts of certain fruits as treats, but always in moderation. Here are some safe options:
- Bananas: Great in tiny slices; they’re rich in potassium.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and safe for cats.
- Watermelon: Hydrating and refreshing, but make sure it’s seedless.
- Cantaloupe: A sweet, cat-safe option when offered in small chunks.
- Apples: Peeled and seed-free slices are okay as an occasional treat.
Fruits to Avoid: Grapes, raisins, citrus fruits (like oranges), and anything seasoned or processed, as these can be toxic or harmful to cats. Always introduce new foods slowly to watch for any negative reactions.
Can Cats Have Apple Jelly?
No, apple jelly is not safe for cats. Most jellies contain high levels of sugar, and some may even have artificial sweeteners or added flavors that can be harmful. Even small amounts of jelly can upset a cat’s digestive system, leading to diarrhea or vomiting.
Always keep sugary, processed foods like jelly out of your cat’s diet.
Is Apple Puree Good for Cats?
Apple puree, if plain and made without added sugars or spices, is generally safe for cats in very small amounts. However, it’s not “good” for them in a nutritional sense, as cats don’t require fruit in their diet.
Apple puree can provide a small dose of fiber or hydration, but it’s far better to stick to treats formulated specifically for cats.
Can Cats Eat Unsweetened Applesauce?
Yes, unsweetened applesauce is okay for cats in a small amount, but it’s not something they need in their diet. Unsweetened applesauce doesn’t contain harmful additives like sugar or spices, but it should still only be offered in moderation as an occasional treat.
Cats are obligate carnivores, so fruits and sugary foods aren’t ideal for them.
Can Cats Eat Mott’s Applesauce?
Not recommended. Even though some varieties of Mott’s applesauce are labeled as “natural,” most contain added sugars or preservatives that aren’t good for cats.
Always check the ingredients, and if there’s added sugar, skip it. Stick to homemade or truly plain, unsweetened applesauce for safety.
Can Cats Eat Apple Skin?
It’s best to avoid giving apple skin to cats. The skin can be tough for them to chew and digest. Additionally, apple skins may contain pesticide residues if not washed thoroughly.
If you offer your cat a small piece of apple, peel it first and remove the seeds and core, as these parts contain amygdalin, a compound that can release toxic cyanide when ingested.
Can Dogs Eat Applesauce?
Yes, dogs can eat plain, unsweetened applesauce in moderation. It can be a tasty and hydrating treat for them.
However, avoid applesauce with added sugars, cinnamon, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Can Cats Eat GoGo Squeez?
Not ideal. GoGo Squeez pouches often have added sugars or other ingredients unsuitable for cats. Even if labeled “natural,” processed applesauce products are best avoided.
Stick to plain, unsweetened applesauce if you want to share.
FAQs
Is It Safe for Cats to Eat Applesauce?
es, but only in small amounts and if it’s plain, unsweetened applesauce. Cats don’t need applesauce in their diet, and too much can upset their stomachs.
Avoid giving applesauce with added sugars, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which are toxic to cats. Even plain applesauce should only be an occasional treat.
What Animals Can Eat Applesauce?
Many animals can enjoy plain, unsweetened applesauce as an occasional treat. These include:
- Dogs – They can handle small amounts of plain applesauce as a snack.
- Rabbits – In very limited quantities, plain applesauce can be a treat, but too much sugar is bad for them.
- Horses – They often enjoy applesauce as a treat or a way to hide medication.
- Pigs – Applesauce is a common treat for pigs, but it should still be given in moderation.
- Goats – They’ll enjoy a bit of plain applesauce occasionally.
Always check if the specific animal can tolerate applesauce and ensure it’s plain and free of harmful additives.
Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?
While not toxic, peanut butter isn’t recommended for cats. It’s high in fat, calories, and sometimes contains xylitol, which is poisonous to cats. Even natural peanut butter can be hard for them to digest and could lead to upset stomachs.
If you want to share a taste, give a tiny lick occasionally, but don’t make it a regular treat.
Can Cats Eat Bananas?
Yes, cats can eat small pieces of banana occasionally. Bananas are non-toxic to cats and provide a little fiber and potassium.
However, because of their sugar content, they should only be given as a rare treat and not in large quantities. Too much could upset their stomach.
Final Thoughts
Can Cats Eat Applesauce? While applesauce isn’t exactly a no-go, it’s not a must-have either.
If your cat’s curious, a small taste of plain, unsweetened applesauce won’t hurt, but don’t overdo it. There are way better treats out there that your feline friend will enjoy and benefit from more.
So next time you’re snacking on applesauce and your cat gives you the look, you’ll know exactly what to do. Share or not – just keep it plain and safe. And if in doubt, always check with your vet.
Because let’s be real – your cat deserves nothing but the best, even when it comes to the tiniest snack.