Can cats eat grapes? Grapes are widely recommended as a tasty and healthy snack for hungry humans, but have you ever noticed your kitty attempting to swipe some of them? While it might seem amusing at first to see your cat try to eat grapes, you’re probably wondering if it’s safe for them to do so.
When it comes to the question of “Can cats eat grapes?” the short answer is yes they can, but they probably shouldn’t. And as with all human foods, you should ask your veterinarian before you even attempt to feed any grapes to your cat.
Let’s dig into the science behind whether cats can eat grapes and spotlight the health and safety concerns.
Are Grapes Safe For Cats To Eat?
First of all, if you have any dog-loving friends or family, you might have heard them telling you that grapes are very dangerous for dogs to eat and can even cause kidney failure.
But does it follow that cats should also avoid the food? Well, not necessarily.
Cats are obligate carnivores and need a diet that’s almost all protein. So that means that grapes shouldn’t really be part of a cat’s daily diet.
But according to most sources, there haven’t been any recorded cases of a cat becoming sick after eating grapes.
So if your cat does seem to have a thing for chowing down on grapes from time to time, you don’t need to necessarily worry. Although, if they show any immediate signs of lethargy, sickness or vomiting, call your vet straight away.
When Is It Okay For Cats To Eat Grapes?
As mentioned, you must ask your vet before you feed your cat grapes or any human food. They can give you more specific advice. Once you get the okay, you can try giving your cat a taste of a grape.
As with all human foods, if your cat shows any interest in eating grapes, make sure you only ever serve them in moderation. Always be sure that the grapes have been properly washed to ensure no potentially poisonous pesticides or fertilizers remain on the fruit.
Also, do not feed your cat grapes with seeds in them. The seeds could become a choking hazard. So cut up the grapes and remove the seeds if your feline seems to be in the mood to snack on some grapes.
Has your cat ever had a taste of grapes? Do they try to sneak a bite when you’re eating them? Tell us all about it in the comments section below!