Can Cats Eat Apple Pie? Vet Reviewed Advice

Apple pie is a popular dessert, and the smell alone will attract any hungry and curious pet. If you catch your cat sniffing around the pie dish, you may be tempted to share a slice, or if your cat has taken a nibble from your plate, you may wonder if it is good for them.

So, can cats eat apple pie? The safest answer is no; it's best not to give your cat apple pie. While the apples won’t cause any harm, the other ingredients may have the potential to, but that doesn’t mean you need to avoid apples from their diet.

Is Apple Pie Good for Cats?

Apple pie may seem like a healthy treat because it contains apples. The skin of apples is high in phytonutrients, while the flesh is high in pectin, vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium¹. You can share apples with your cats as an occasional snack by cutting them up into cubes, but the problem with apple pie is the rest of the ingredients.

Apples can benefit your cat, but the high sugar content, spices, and crust are best left unserved.

Can Cats Eat Apple Pie?

Apple pie consists of more than just apples, and while apples are safe for cats to consume in small quantities, the same can’t be said for the rest of the ingredients². This delicious dessert contains high levels of sugar and ingredients that can be toxic to cats, such as nutmeg and cinnamon.

Nutmeg contains a toxin known as myristicin, and even though the consumption of small amounts is unlikely to cause serious harm, it can still cause mild stomach upset. Large amounts of nutmeg can be more serious and lead to an increased heart rate, hallucinations, disorientation, abdominal pain, and sometimes seizures. Cinnamon contains coumarin, and a large amount can cause problems with clotting. It may also cause redness and irritation in your cat’s mouth if ingested. Large doses can cause vomiting, diarrhea, low blood sugar, and liver disease. Sugar is not toxic for cats but is not suitable for them. Over time it can lead to obesity or diabetes.

While these ingredients are in low quantities inside an apple pie, keeping your cat away from this sweet dessert is best. If your cat happens to steal a piece from your plate, you most likely don’t need to worry but try your best to keep it away from them.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Apple Pie?

If your cat has helped itself to the leftovers of your apple pie, here is what you can do.

Monitor your cat for any troubling signs. They can be mild to severe and sometimes appear hours after your cat has ingested the pie. Look out for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

If you suspect your cat has ingested a large amount of apple pie and you are concerned about the effect of the ingredients, it's best to call your vet for assistance immediately.

How Can You Include Apples in Your Cats Diet?

If your cat enjoyed its nibble of your apple pie, there are ways you can incorporate apples as part of a healthy diet, so they can enjoy the texture more often. A small bite-sized piece of raw apple is great for your cat to nibble on but be sure to remove any seeds. No more than once or twice a week is recommended. Monitor your cat while eating to ensure they don’t choke on the piece of apple.

Conclusion

Apple pie is a delicious treat for humans, but it is best not to share it with your feline friend. While apples are safe for your cat, the rest of the pie may cause illness, especially if you share an equal-sized slice with your cat! If your curious cat has nibbled off your plate, there is likely no need for concern, but if any signs appear, it is best to consult your vet immediately. If your cat has developed a love for the taste, you can incorporate apples into its diet in small amounts as an occasional treat.

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• Why Do Cats Try to Eat Plastic? 4 Vet-Approved Reasons for This Behavior

Featured Image Credit: nelea33, Shutterstock