Can cats eat applesauce?

If your cat has already eaten this and you are worried, contact your veterinarian.

Why

Cats are obligate carnivores and do not need fruit, while many commercial applesauce products contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners like xylitol that can be harmful. Even plain versions offer little nutritional benefit and can cause stomach upset or diarrhea if a cat eats too much.

If you do feed it

Ensure the applesauce is 100% plain with no added sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners.
Limit the portion to a tiny teaspoon or less as an occasional treat, not a meal.
Remove all apple seeds and cores before serving, as they contain trace amounts of cyanide.
Introduce only a very small amount to see how your cat's stomach reacts.

Watch out for

Sweetened or flavored applesauce
Added xylitol or artificial sweeteners
Apple seeds and cores
Cinnamon or nutmeg additives

Better choices

Freeze-dried chicken treats Small pieces of cooked plain chicken Commercial cat treats formulated for digestion A few blueberries (seeds removed)

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