Although most cats do not appreciate fruit, others will want to try the fruit that their owners eat. If you are enjoying an orange, you may have wondered, can cats eat oranges?
After all, oranges are a great source of vitamin C.
Oranges are toxic fruits for cats. They contain essential oils that damage your cat’s nervous system.
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The orange peel is the most dangerous for cats. The flesh of the fruit contains fewer essential oils. This does not make it safe, but the side effects will be less severe.
Are oranges safe for cats?
Oranges are an example of a food that could intrigue your cat but also harm her. The vets list oranges as a toxic food, primarily because the essential oils in the peel irritate your cat’s stomach. Vomiting and diarrhea will be the consequence of its consumption.
If you eat only the flesh of the orange, you will have fewer problems, but your cat will most likely have some kind of stomach upset.
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Another problem with oranges is that they have Psoralen. This compound makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Humans can be negatively affected by psoralens, but a cat will be affected to a greater extent. Felines are already sensitive to the sun and their thin, delicate skin can burn easily.
What is citrus poisoning?
Limonene and linalool, essential oils from oranges, are harmful to cats. If you expose your cat to these oils, he/she can get citrus poisoning.
In addition to vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms of citrus poisoning include excessive drooling and muscle weakness. Your pet may also experience depression, as the oils wreak havoc on their hormones. Fortunately, many cats do not like oranges.
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Why do cats not like oranges?
Most felines have a natural aversion to citrus. Orange peels can serve as a deterrent against cats. If you have cats in the neighborhood that use your garden as a bathroom, put orange peels. They will soon leave your property alone.
In addition to this, many cats will be indifferent to the taste of oranges as it is very sweet. Felines do not perceive sweet. As a result, they will be immune to the taste of an orange.
What if my cat likes oranges?
There are exceptions to every rule. Some cats enjoy sweet fruits and will want to eat them. Also, some cats even like the smell of oranges. That is very rare, but it can happen.
In such a case, your cat will rub against the fruit. This can be dangerous, and cause a reaction. Be careful with this behavior. Most likely, your cat will ask you to share your orange by imitation, to avoid risk avoid sharing.
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Can cats be allergic to oranges?
A cat that is allergic to oranges may experience any of the following side effects:
- Swelling of the face.
- Itchy eyes and nose.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Itchy skin, especially around the base of the tail.
Can cats drink orange juice?
How about orange juice for your cat? Would your cat benefit from this delicious drink that accompanies our breakfast?
As you might guess, cats and orange juice should be kept away. All the warnings associated with oranges must also be taken with the juice.
Also, orange juice is full of sugar. Sugar increases the possibility of developing diseases such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney problems.
What are healthy alternatives to oranges?
Very few fruits are safe or suitable for cats. Watermelon is a good option for a cat who likes fruit. It has a high proportion of water. This means that it is low in calories and hydrating during the summer months. If your cat doesn’t drink enough, watermelon is a very good option.
Some cats also enjoy summer fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries. In this case, your cat is more likely to enjoy the smell than the taste.
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You can also offer him a piece of apricot or pear. The flesh of these fruits contains antioxidant properties that prevent cancer. Don’t forget to remove the seeds though, as they contain arsenic.
What If My Cat Eat An Orange?
If your cat has eaten an orange, remain calm. Although these fruits are toxic, your life is not imminently in danger.
A lot depends on what part of the orange your cat eats and how much. The orange peel and leaves are the most dangerous. Your cat will probably start to vomit as soon as he consumes them.
After your cat has eaten an orange, observe it. You should seek professional help if you see any of the following symptoms:
- Your cat vomits frequently for 24 hours.
- You have diarrhea for more than 24 hours or blood in your stool.
- Your cat is having difficulty breathing.
- Your cat is lethargic.
- The cat loses consciousness and has seizures.
- Do not eat or drink for more than 24 hours.
