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Can Cats Eat Strawberries?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Are strawberries safe for cats?
Strawberries are sweet red berries with tiny seeds on the outside, sold fresh, frozen or canned. Strawberries are not toxic to cats, but cats do not need fruit and the sugar offers them nothing, so keep it to a tiny taste. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need strawberries. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve strawberries to your cat
- Wash them and remove the stems and leaves
- Cut them into small pieces, and thaw frozen berries first because whole frozen ones can be a choking risk
- Offer one or two berries at most
What to avoid
- Strawberries in syrup, jam or sweetened yogurt
- Chocolate-covered strawberries, because chocolate is toxic to cats
How many strawberries can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including strawberries, 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 strawberries?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding strawberries. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too many strawberries?
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 strawberries?
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 Strawberries?