Table of contents

• 1. Summer, strawberries – and the cat?
• 2. Why are cats interested in strawberries?
  • 2.1 The smell irritates cats
  • 2.2 Strawberries look like toys
  • 2.3 Cats cannot taste sweetness
• 3. What's in strawberries?
  • 3.1 Vitamins and other substances
  • 3.2 Water content helps only a little
• 4. Are strawberries dangerous for cats?
  • 4.1 Possible problems
  • 4.2 Sugar is a risk
  • 4.3 Pesticides and mold
• 5. How much strawberry is allowed?
  • When not to give strawberries
• 6. Can cats eat strawberry plants?
• 7. Is strawberry yogurt allowed for cats?
• 9. Conclusion: Can cats eat strawberries?

1. Summer, strawberries – and the cat?

It's very hot in Germany right now. Temperatures are rising to 38 degrees.

Many people enjoy eating strawberries right now. Strawberries are fresh, sweet, and contain water.

Many cat owners wonder:

• Can cats eat strawberries?
• Are strawberries poisonous to cats?

The answer is:

• Yes, cats can eat strawberries.
• But they should only get a little. And you need to pay attention to a few things.

2. Why are cats interested in strawberries?

Cats usually eat meat. However, they are sometimes interested in fruits like strawberries.

Many owners notice this and are puzzled. But there are simple explanations.

2.1 The smell irritates cats

Cats have a very good sense of smell. They notice strong odors immediately. Strawberries smell sweet and fruity.

Some substances in strawberries are similar to those in catnip.

That's why some cats rub against or lick strawberries. They want to smell them, not taste them.

2.2 Strawberries look like toys

Strawberries are small and round. They roll easily across the ground.

Many cats play with them as if they were prey.

They sniff at it, push it, or bite it.

Most of the time they're just playing. They don't actually want to eat the fruit.

2.3 Cats cannot taste sweetness

Cats cannot taste sweetness. They lack an important receptor for it.

Cats don't eat strawberries because of the taste.

They do it because they are curious or because the shape and smell appeal to them.

3. What's in strawberries?

Strawberries contain many nutrients. They are healthy for humans.

But what do these substances mean for cats?

3.1 Vitamins and other substances

Strawberries contain:

• Vitamin C – cats don't need it because they produce it themselves.
• Folic acid – good for the blood, but cats get enough from meat.
• Potassium – important for the heart and kidneys, but already contained in animal feed.
• Dietary fiber – difficult for cats to digest.
• Fruit acids – can irritate the stomach.
• Fructose – can cause problems in sensitive cats.

Cats have a short intestine. They cannot digest plant matter well.

3.2 Water content helps only a little

Strawberries contain a lot of water. Over 90%.

That sounds good in hot weather. But cats should drink water – not get it from fruit.

It is better to offer fresh water or homemade broth.

4. Are strawberries dangerous for cats?

Strawberries are not poisonous to cats.

But they can cause problems if you're not careful.

4.1 Possible problems

Some cats are sensitive.

This can happen:

• They vomit.
• They have diarrhea.
• They lose their appetite.
• They develop skin problems or swelling.

Leaves and stems are also not good. They can get stuck in the stomach or cause irritation.

4.2 Sugar is a risk

Strawberries contain fructose.

This is a problem for these cats:

• Overweight cats
• Cats with diabetes
• Cats with dental problems

Sugar can disrupt blood sugar levels. It can also damage teeth.

4.3 Pesticides and mold

Many strawberries are treated with pesticides.

These substances can be toxic to cats.

Even old, moldy strawberries are dangerous. Even small amounts of mold can be harmful.

Here's how to do it right:

• Only fresh strawberries
• Buy organic if possible.
• Wash thoroughly beforehand
• Remove leaves and stem

5. How much strawberry is allowed?

Cats can eat strawberries. But the quantity is important.

• At most half a strawberry a day
• Only the pulp
• Cut into small pieces
• No stems, leaves, or seeds
• Don't give it every day

When not to give strawberries

Some cats should not be given strawberries:

• If they have diabetes
• If they are sensitive
• If they are old or very young
• If they weigh too much

Strawberries are too much for these cats.

6. Can cats eat strawberry plants?

The plant itself is not poisonous.

But it's hard to digest.

The leaves and stems irritate the stomach.

Fertilizers, soil, and pesticides are also dangerous, especially for outdoor cats.

Therefore:

Place strawberry plants where cats cannot reach them.

7. Is strawberry yogurt allowed for cats?

No. Strawberry yogurt is not a good idea.

It contains:

• Sugar
• Aromas
• Milk

Cats don't tolerate that well. Sugar and milk often cause problems.

If you still want to try it, use unsweetened natural yogurt. Give only a small amount. And only rarely.

9. Conclusion: Can cats eat strawberries?

Yes, cats can eat strawberries – but only rarely, in small quantities and without any plant parts.

• Not toxic, but also not necessary.
• Better suited for healthy, adult cats
• No strawberries for kittens, senior animals, or sick animals.
• Always wash thoroughly, chop into small pieces, without stems and seeds.
• Okay as an occasional snack – but I prefer meat to fruit!