Can cats eat fruit juice?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
High sugar and possible toxic ingredients; cats only need water.
Why
Fruit juice is sugary and unsuitable for cats.
Can cats eat fruit juice, and why?
Fruit juice is sugary and unsuitable for cats. High sugar and possible toxic ingredients; cats only need water.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
High sugar and possible toxic ingredients; cats only need water.
If your cat has eaten fruit juice, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat fruit juice?
Caution. Fruit juice is sugary and unsuitable for cats.
What happens if my cat eats fruit juice?
High sugar and possible toxic ingredients; cats only need water. If your cat has eaten fruit juice, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is fruit juice poisonous to cats?
Caution. Fruit juice is sugary and unsuitable for cats.
Check fruit juice for another pet