Can cats eat apples?
Yes, a small piece of apple is fine now and then, as long as you remove the core, seeds and stem first. Cats are meat eaters and don't need fruit, so apple is only an occasional extra.
Updated:
Why
NC State's veterinary hospital lists apple without seeds among healthy human-food treats for cats and dogs, and Pet Poison Helpline says apples are safe raw or cooked once the core and seeds are removed. The ASPCA lists the apple plant as toxic to cats because its stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanide. Cats are obligate carnivores, and any plant material can cause vomiting or stomach upset.
What to do
Offer a small piece first. If your cat vomits or gets an upset stomach afterwards, stop and ask your vet. If your cat chewed apple seeds, stems or leaves, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline as soon as possible.
How to give it
Apple flesh only, raw or cooked, with the core, seeds and stem removed; a small piece now and then, counted in your cat's daily food.
Questions and answers
Why remove the core and seeds?
The core and seeds can cause choking or a blockage in the gut, and the seeds contain a small amount of cyanide.
Do cats need fruit?
No. Cats are carnivores: they need nutrients found in meat and don't need fruit or vegetables in their diet. Fruit can only ever be a small extra.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Healthy Human Food Treats For Pets — NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Hospital – Nutrition (no date shown)
- Friendly Fall Foods — Pet Poison Helpline (I. Kiekhafer, S. Koch; published 2023-09-28, modified 2026-05-27)
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Apple — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
- Feeding Your Cat — Cornell Feline Health Center (updated 2026-04-30)
- The best diet for your cat — PDSA (2024-01)
- Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.