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Can Cats Eat Plums?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Are plums safe for cats?
Plums are sweet stone fruits. As with cherries and peaches, the pit, stem and leaves contain cyanide-producing compounds. A small piece of fresh plum flesh is not toxic to cats, but the pit should be removed completely, and cats gain little from fruit. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need plums. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve plums to your cat
- Wash the plum and remove the pit completely
- Cut the flesh into small pieces
- Keep fallen, overripe or fermenting plums out of reach in the garden
What to avoid
- The pit, which is a choking hazard and contains cyanide-producing compounds
- Overripe or fermenting fallen plums
- Plum jam, which is high in sugar
How many plums can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including plums, 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 plums?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding plums. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too many plums?
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 plums?
Treat them 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 Plums?