Anyone who has a cat knows: these furry creatures take the most active interest in everything their owner eats. And watermelons – are no exception. But can you give this summer treat to a cat?
On the one hand, most healthy cats can eat a little watermelon without harm to themselves. On the other – watermelon has no real nutritional value and can cause a cat to develop diabetes or obesity if it eats it regularly.
Watermelon is not toxic to cats
Some fruits (for example, citrus) can pose a danger to cats’ health. But watermelon – is a safe option. Unlike limes, lemons, oranges, clementines, and grapefruits, whose peel, flesh, stems, and leaves can cause digestive upset and even depression of the central nervous system, watermelon is not toxic by nature.
It does not cause gastrointestinal disorders, neurological changes, or breathing problems. Moreover, since watermelon consists mainly of water, a few small pieces can even help quench a pet’s thirst on hot days.
Nevertheless, there are two important caveats:
- Although watermelon is not toxic, a cat can choke on the seeds. Always remove them before giving a piece of watermelon to your pet.
- Different cats have different sensitivities and dietary needs. Always watch your cat’s reaction after offering it watermelon for the first time. If you notice any signs of digestive upset, it’s better not to give them this berry anymore.
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There are still risks
Watermelon is nonetheless not without potential risks, especially for cats with certain conditions. This berry, high in natural sugars, can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar if consumed in large quantities.
Since fruit is not considered a natural part of any cat’s diet, excessive consumption of watermelon can cause diabetes or obesity.
Watermelon will not meet a cat’s nutritional needs
However refreshing this fruit may be, which is incredibly beneficial for humans, for cats there is no particular benefit or nutritional value in it. Cats are carnivores; their diet should consist mainly of animal protein. They did not evolve to feed on plants the way we do.
Even more importantly, watermelon lacks essential nutrients such as taurine and vitamin A, which cats need for optimal health. This means that regularly feeding watermelon can lead to nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in the long term.
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Cats are «blind to sweetness» and cannot enjoy watermelon the way we do
This is a very amusing fact. If your cat likes watermelon, it is most likely intrigued by its texture and the sensation of chewing, rather than the taste. Why? Because felines – are the only existing animals that cannot taste sugar.
Scientists have found evidence supporting the theory that cats are «blind to sweetness» – their tongues cannot detect even a hint of sweetness.
The ability to perceive sweet taste likely developed as a mechanism for identifying and seeking out energy-rich carbohydrates, which are abundant in fruits and other plant foods. However, as strict predators, cats adapted to a diet consisting mainly of proteins and fats, which makes the ability to taste sugar unnecessary for their survival.
If they can’t sense its sweetness, then why do cats like watermelon at all? As we’ve already said, because of the unusual texture and smell. Cats like watermelon on a sensory level. Besides, they are always drawn to novelty.
