Why
Strawberries are not toxic to cats. They contain water, fiber, vitamin C and other plant compounds, but none of that is something a cat relies on. Cats are obligate carnivores and rely on nutrients found in animal products, and PetMD's veterinary guide notes that cats make their own vitamin C, so they do not need it from fruit. Strawberries fall into the category of safe but not necessary.
Many cats show no interest. In 2005, researchers reported in PLoS Genetics that cats lack a working sweet taste receptor, so a ripe strawberry does not taste sweet to them. A cat that nibbles one is usually curious about the smell or the texture.
The main risks are simple ones. A strawberry is large for a cat's mouth, so whole berries are a choking risk, and too much fruit can cause vomiting or diarrhea. The natural sugar is a problem for cats with diabetes or weight problems even though they cannot taste it.
What to watch out for
- Whole strawberries, which are big enough to choke on
- The leaves and stems, which are tough for cats to chew and digest
- Too much at once, which can cause vomiting or diarrhea
- Cats that are overweight or have diabetes, which should not be given strawberries
- Dried, candied, canned or sweetened strawberries, with a lot of concentrated sugar
- Chocolate-covered strawberries, because chocolate is toxic to cats
How to serve it
- Use fresh or frozen strawberries that are ripe and plain.
- Wash them well and remove the leaves and stem.
- Cut the berry into small, bite-size pieces, or mash a little into your cat's wet food.
- Start with a single small piece and watch for stomach upset over the next day.
- Frozen pieces can be a cooling treat in hot weather, but keep them small.
How much?
PetMD's veterinary guide suggests no more than one small strawberry, cut into pieces, on no more than a couple of days a week for a healthy adult cat. Less is fine.
Strawberry yogurt, ice cream and desserts
Cats are often more interested in the cream or yogurt around a strawberry than in the fruit itself. Dairy brings its own problem: most adult cats have little lactase, the enzyme that digests milk sugar, so milk-based foods can cause diarrhea. Ice cream, whipped cream and cheesecake add fat and sugar as well.
If your cat licks a little plain strawberry yogurt, it is unlikely to be more than a mild stomach upset for most cats. Avoid anything labeled sugar-free, which may contain sweeteners that are not meant for pets, and anything with chocolate.
Strawberries for cats with health conditions
PetMD's veterinary guide advises that overweight cats and cats with diabetes should not have strawberries, because of the sugar. For a diabetic cat, even small amounts of fruit can make blood sugar harder to control.
Cats on a prescription diet, for example for kidney disease, urinary problems or food allergies, should not be given extra foods without your vet's approval. Ask your vet before sharing, even something as simple as a strawberry.
Common questions
Are strawberries good for cats?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Strawberries are not toxic to cats. They contain water, fiber, vitamin C and other plant compounds, but none of that is something a cat relies on.
Are strawberries bad for cats?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: whole strawberries, which are big enough to choke on.
Are cats allowed to have strawberries?
Yes. Use fresh or frozen strawberries that are ripe and plain.
Can cats eat strawberry leaves?
It is best to remove them. PetMD's veterinary guide notes that the leaves and stems are not toxic but are tough for cats to chew and digest.
Can kittens eat strawberries?
A healthy kitten can try a tiny piece of plain strawberry. Kittens are curious and more likely to choke, so cut the piece small enough that it is safe even if swallowed whole.
Can cats be allergic to strawberries?
A true strawberry allergy is unlikely in cats, according to PetMD's veterinary guide, but some cats get vomiting or diarrhea after eating it, even the first time. If that happens, stop offering it.
Sources
- PetMD. Can Cats Eat Strawberries? (Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM, DABVP)
- Li X, Li W, Wang H, et al. Pseudogenization of a sweet-receptor gene accounts for cats’ indifference toward sugar. PLoS Genetics, 2005;1(1):e3.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feeding Your Cat.
If your cat has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian, an emergency animal hospital or an animal poison control service right away, even if your cat seems fine. Do not try to make your cat vomit at home.