Feeding pets can be a source of concern for us. We all know that cats are carnivores but can still eat some fruit. There are many fruits that cats can eat, but are pears one of them? Maybe you want to know if cats can eat pears? Are pears good or bad for cats? Or what is the daily intake of pears for cats? In this article, we answer all your questions about pears and eating them for your cat.
Can cats have pears?
Yes, cats can eat pears, but in moderation.
As we said in the article on permitted and good fruits for cats, pears are among the fruits that you can give to cats. But it is better to consider some points when giving this fruit to cats. In the following, we will explain the tips and how to give pears to the cat.
Benefits of pears for cats at a glance
Pears are rich in fibre and vitamins C and K. It is also free of sodium, cholesterol and fat. Therefore it is considered a safe fruit for cats.
Pears provide dietary fibre, including prebiotics, that helps with bowel regularity, constipation relief, and overall digestive health.
In addition, high fibre in this fruit can reduce the weight of obese cats.
Eating pears with the skin has more fibre, but we recommend giving pears without the skin to your cat. Because it increases the risk of poisoning due to spraying.
In addition, pears have anti-cancer properties for cats.
Dangerous parts of pears for cats
In general, pears are safe for cats, but parts of pears should not be given to your cat. This part includes the pit, its leaves and stems.
Pear pit contains acid cyanide, which is very toxic to cats. So it is better to separate this part.
We recommend removing the skin of the pear as well, as it may contain bacteria and pesticides and be harmful to your cat.
What are the dangers of eating pears in cats?
If the cat eats this fruit in moderation, it does not pose much danger. But overeating pears has many bad for cats.
Problems and diseases caused by eating too many pears include:
- Vomit
- Fever
- diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- or anything else unusual
If you see these symptoms, be sure to visit a veterinary clinic.
How many pears are allowed for a cat?
Pears are indeed suitable for cats, but too many of them can cause problems for your cat.
Usually, 10-15% of a cat’s daily diet can be allocated to fruits and vegetables. Therefore, it is better not to give more than 2 pieces of pear to the cat daily. If this is the case, there is no danger to your cat. Each piece is the size of the kibble.
Eating more than 2 pieces of pear can cause stomach irritation, digestive system and cat digestive system disorders. In the following, we will explain the side effects of excessive consumption of pears.
Important points when giving pears to cats
- Be sure to peel the pear, cut it into pieces, and then give it to the cat.
- You can give pears to your cat raw, steamed or boiled.
- If you want to give a pear with the skin to a cat, it is better to wash the skin of the pear altogether to remove possible toxins from it.
- Be sure to remove the pear pit. The core of these fruits contains cyanide acid, which is dangerous and poisonous for cats and even dogs.
- Avoid giving your cat pear-flavoured treats because they contain added sugar (xylitol), which is very dangerous for your cat. Small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin in cats, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Can kittens eat pears?
Yes, kittens can eat pears. They are not poisonous. Of course, it is allowed for weaned kittens. This fruit is hard to eat raw for kittens whose teeth are not yet fully erupted, so you can boil or steam this fruit and give it to kitties.
Boiling or steaming it preserves the benefits of this fruit and makes it easier for the kitten to eat.
Pear substitutes for cats
Watermelon and apples are suitable substitutes for pears. Watermelon is recommended for its moisturizing properties, as it is rich in water.
Like pears, apples are ideal as a treat or snack for your cat. Apple is a source of fibre and vitamins A and C.
As with pears, apples and watermelons should be removed from the pit, cut into small pieces, and do not give the cat more than 2 pieces per day.
You can also give your cat strawberries, blueberries, melons or peaches.
The bottom line
Pear has many properties on the health of cats, but if it is consumed in moderation. (1 to 2 pieces per day, no more)
Yes, cats can eat pears, both raw and cooked. You can include this fruit in your cat’s daily diet after consulting your veterinarian and animal nutritionist.
Other fruits that cats can eat:
