Can cats eat mandarins?
No, it's best not to. Mandarins are citrus fruits, and Cats Protection says eating citrus fruits is bad for cats. The ASPCA lists the orange plant as toxic to cats, mainly because of the peel and plant parts, so keep mandarins for people.
Updated:
Why
We found no vet source that names mandarins on their own, so this answer relies on what the sources say about citrus fruits in general. Cats Protection says eating citrus fruits is bad for cats and can cause stomach discomfort, vomiting and diarrhoea, and NC State's veterinary hospital lists citrus fruits among foods that may cause vomiting or diarrhoea in cats and dogs. The ASPCA lists the orange plant as toxic to cats because of essential oils and psoralens: the fruit is edible, but the skins and plant material can cause problems. Cats Protection adds that a small taste is unlikely to cause a severe reaction. We follow the stricter advice and do not recommend sharing mandarins.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach discomfort
What to do
If your cat shows signs such as vomiting or diarrhoea after eating mandarin, contact your vet as soon as possible. Note what was eaten and when.
24-hour help by country →Questions and answers
Which part of an orange is the problem?
For oranges, the ASPCA says the fruit is edible, but the skins and plant material can cause problems because they contain essential oils and psoralens.
My cat had a tiny taste. Is that an emergency?
Cats Protection says not to panic if a cat samples a segment or licks your fingers; a cat would need to eat a lot to be in danger of a severe reaction. Watch for vomiting or diarrhoea and ask your vet if you are worried.
Why do cats usually avoid citrus?
Cats Protection says cats have a natural dislike of strong citrus smells, so they tend to avoid eating citrus fruits.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Orange — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
- Why do cats hate citrus fruit? — Cats Protection blog (2018-12-18)
- Healthy Human Food Treats For Pets — NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Hospital – Nutrition (no date shown)
- Cats and poisons — International Cat Care
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.