Can Cats Eat Citrus? Oranges, Lemons, Limes and Essential Oils

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Citrus is one of the few fruit families that cats usually reject on their own. The sharp aroma that people find fresh and clean tends to repel cats. That is lucky, because citrus is a poor choice for them, and the biggest risks come not from the juicy part but from the peel, the plants and the oils.

What makes citrus a problem

Citrus fruits contain citric acid and, in the peel and seeds, essential oils with compounds such as limonene and linalool, along with psoralens in some parts. In large amounts, these can irritate the digestive tract, cause drooling and vomiting, and in rare cases lead to depression of the nervous system. The plants, including leaves and stems, contain the same compounds.

The flesh of an orange or tangerine is mostly sugar and water, with vitamin C that cats do not need, since they make their own. Lemons and limes are far more acidic. None of these fit an obligate carnivore's needs.

Quick reference

Essential oils and diffusers

The concentrated form of citrus is the greatest danger. Cats lack certain liver enzymes that help break down many compounds in essential oils, so toxins may build up. Diffused oils settle on fur and are swallowed when the cat grooms, and direct contact with undiluted oil can burn the skin and mouth. Signs of oil poisoning include drooling, vomiting, tremors, wobbliness, low body temperature and breathing difficulty. If you use diffusers, keep them out of reach, ventilate well, never use them in a small room where the cat is confined and stop if the cat shows any signs.

Do not apply essential oils to a cat's coat or use citrus sprays as a deterrent on a cat.

Citrus as a cat deterrent

Many guides suggest placing orange peels or citrus sprays to keep cats off furniture or out of garden beds. Because the smell is unpleasant to most cats, it can work, but it is not a risk-free method. Peels can be chewed, and sprays may contain essential oils. Better options include physical barriers, double-sided tape, motion-activated deterrents and providing an appealing alternative, such as a scratching post. See our cat behavior guides for humane strategies.

What to do after exposure

1. Remove any remaining citrus, or wipe oil from the cat's coat with a damp cloth if directed by a vet.
2. Move the cat to fresh air if it was exposed to a diffuser or spray.
3. Watch for signs such as drooling, vomiting, lethargy, tremors or labored breathing.
4. Call your vet or an animal poison helpline if the cat licked or swallowed oil, ate a lot of peel or shows signs. Our US vet directory and the emergency warning signs guide can help.

Citrus plants at home

Lemon, lime and orange trees are popular houseplants, and the leaves and fruit contain oils that can upset a cat's stomach. Keep them out of reach, or choose plants from our cat-safe houseplants guide.

Myths about citrus and cats

"Vitamin C helps cats stay healthy." Cats produce their own vitamin C and do not need more from fruit.

"Citrus cleans a cat's teeth or breath." It does not, and the acid may irritate the mouth.

"A natural oil is safe because it is natural." Natural substances can be toxic, and essential oils are concentrated compounds.

Safer ideas

If your cat wants a taste of something new, small pieces of plain cooked chicken are better. For other foods, use our free cat food and plant safety checker, and ask your veterinarian if you are unsure.

Citrus and the skin

The juice and oils in citrus can irritate skin. If your cat walks through spilled juice, wipe its paws with a damp cloth before it grooms. Peeling an orange next to a cat sends oil into the air, and some cats sneeze or paw at their noses, which is a sign to move away and let it air out. Wash your hands before petting your cat after handling citrus.

What about orange-flavored products?

Orange-flavored medicines, candies, drinks and baked goods usually contain artificial flavor and sugar, and some contain xylitol. Keep them away from cats, and read labels carefully.

Quick checklist

• Is there any citrus oil, spray or diffuser within your cat's reach?
• Are there citrus peels or plants in places your cat can chew?
• Have you cleaned surfaces with citrus cleaners and let them dry before your cat returns?

If so, make changes to reduce exposure, and call a vet if your cat shows signs.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.