Can dogs or cats eat apples?

April 26, 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat apples?

Yes, your dog can eat apples!

Apples are a great source of vitamins such as vitamin C and A, which can help boost your dog's immune system. They also contain dietary fiber, which aids digestion.

To sweeten the deal, apples are low in fat and calories, making them an ideal treat for dogs that need to lose weight or maintain their weight. Just make sure you're feeding them small pieces, as larger pieces can become choking hazards.

And make sure not to overfeed your dog with too many apples, since too much fruit intake may lead to stomach upset or diarrhea. In general, you should always practice moderation when introducing new foods into your dog's diet.

Can cats eat apples?

It's safe for cats to eat certain fruits, including apples, as an occasional treat or supplement to their regular diet. Apples contain vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that can provide some benefits for cats.

However, moderation is the key when it comes to feeding apples to cats. While small amounts of can be beneficial, excessive consumption may lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea or upset stomach due to the high sugar content of this fruit.

As always, consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food item into your cat's diet! If your cat eats apples and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If your cat requires veterinary care related to eating any unsafe foods, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Information Purposes Only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet Poison Emergency Protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).

Food Safety Statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet