can cats eat avocado

Can Cats Eat Avocado?

Reviewed by Leslie Jones, DVM

Have you ever had guacamole on your table and considered allowing your cat to have a taste?

If so, you may be curious about whether cats can eat avocado.

Although avocados are not the worst food item for your cat, they are still not recommended as they can result in various gastrointestinal issues for your pet, and in some cases, worse outcomes if consumed in excess.

Can Cats Eat Avocado as a Treat?

can cats eat avocado

Although some individuals have stated that cats can safely consume avocados, it is not recommended to offer them as a treat to your feline.

Avocados are considered toxic to cats because of the presence of persin, which can be found in the leaves, bark, seeds, and the fleshy fruit (edible portion).

Although the toxicity level is not high, persin can potentially harm the heart and mammary glands, and therefore, avocados should not be given to cats.

Furthermore, avocados are high in fat, and consuming high-fat meals can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, which can result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and in severe cases, fatality.

Signs of Persin Toxicity in Cats

can cats eat avocado

In cats, there are no distinct clinical indications of persin toxicity.

However, if your feline develops pancreatitis from consuming the high fat content of avocados, you may observe certain health issues.

In the case that your pet has difficulty after ingesting a significant amount of avocado, you may notice symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia due to pancreatitis.

  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Poor appetite
  • Vomiting

Moreover, it is crucial to consider that the primary hazard of avocados in pets is the possibility of the seed causing blockage if ingested.

What To Do If Your Cat Eats Avocado

can cats eat avocado

The amount of avocado that your cat consumes is significant since felines do not typically snack in the same manner as dogs, who are often food-obsessed.

Nevertheless, depending on the quantity consumed, you can generally monitor your cat for any indications of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.

If you observe any of these signs, it is advisable to seek veterinary attention for diagnosis and treatment.

Healthy Treats for your Cat

Rather than offering your cat avocado, here are some other fruits and vegetables that your feline can safely consume:

  • Apple
  • Banana
  • Carrot
  • Pumpkin
  • Strawberry

Remember to ensure that your cat avoids grapes, onions, and garlic, as all of these are toxic to felines.

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