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Can Cats Eat Dragon Fruit?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is dragon fruit safe for cats?
Dragon fruit, also called pitaya, is a tropical cactus fruit with soft white or pink flesh and tiny black seeds. Dragon fruit is not considered toxic to cats, but they gain nothing from it and many will simply ignore it. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need dragon fruit. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve dragon fruit to your cat
- Peel off the skin and serve only the soft flesh
- Cut it into small pieces, especially for small cats
- Offer one piece first and watch for stomach upset
What to avoid
- The tough outer skin
- Dried or candied dragon fruit with added sugar
How much dragon fruit can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including dragon fruit, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat dragon fruit?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding dragon fruit. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too much dragon fruit?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my cat have dragon fruit?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?