Can Cats Eat Kiwi? Safety, Sugar and Why Some Cats Love It
Cut a kiwi, and some cats will appear from nowhere. Others ignore it completely. The fuzzy brown fruit with its bright green flesh is not dangerous, but is not especially useful either. Here is how to think about kiwi and cats.
Is kiwi safe?
Kiwi fruit is not listed as toxic for cats. The flesh is sweet and tart, containing vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium and fiber. Cats make their own vitamin C, so they do not need it from food. Because it is acidic and contains natural sugars, it can upset some stomachs, and is not a good regular treat.
Why do some cats love kiwi?
Cats may be attracted to kiwi for the same reason that they react to silvervine and catnip. Plants in the kiwi family, such as the actinidia species, contain compounds that can trigger a playful response in cats. Some cats lick, rub or chew kiwi leaves and vines, and may show attraction to the fruit. This varies, and many cats do not react. See is catnip safe for cats.
How to serve kiwi
- Wash the fruit, peel off the fuzzy skin and cut away the tough core.
- Cut a tiny piece, about the size of a fingertip, from the soft flesh.
- Offer it plain.
- Watch your cat for vomiting, diarrhea or itching.
- Keep it rare, at most a bite once in a while.
Risks
- Sugar. Kiwi contains natural sugars, which are not helpful for diabetic or overweight cats. See diabetic cat diet and how to help an overweight cat lose weight.
- Acidity. Can irritate the mouth or stomach.
- Skin. The fuzzy skin is rough, hard to digest and may carry pesticides.
- Seeds. Tiny, usually harmless in small amounts.
- Allergy. Rare, but kiwi is a known allergen in people, and cats can react too, with itching, swelling of the mouth or digestive signs.
- Oxalates. Kiwi contains oxalate, which may matter for cats with urinary stones. See bladder stones and crystals in cats.
Kiwi products
Avoid kiwi-flavored candies, yogurts and juices, which contain sugar and additives, sometimes xylitol. See is xylitol toxic to cats. Do not give dried kiwi with added sugar.
Kiwi plants
Kiwi vines are not on the usual toxic plant lists, but many gardens have other hazards. See cat friendly garden and yard. Cats may damage plants by chewing or rolling.
Better treats
Many cats do better with meaty treats. See healthy cat treats. If your cat likes plant play, offer silvervine sticks or cat grass. See how to grow cat grass.
Other fruits
See can cats eat strawberries, can cats eat pineapple, can cats eat watermelon, can cats eat blueberries and can cats eat citrus.
Special situations
- Kidney disease. Kiwi is high in potassium. Ask your vet. See kidney diets for cats.
- Diabetes. Avoid.
- Kittens. Not recommended.
- Food allergies. Avoid new foods during elimination trials. See hydrolyzed protein cat food.
Signs of trouble
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, itching or swelling after eating kiwi needs a vet. See cat vomiting causes.
The bottom line
A lick or tiny bite of plain kiwi flesh will not hurt most cats. Do not make it a habit, and keep sugary kiwi products away.
Silvervine and the kiwi family
Silvervine, a plant from the same broader family as kiwi, is well known among cat behavior researchers because a large majority of cats respond to it, including many that ignore catnip. Researchers have found that compounds in silvervine trigger a pleasurable response, which may even help repel insects. Kiwi vines contain related chemistry, which may be why some cats rub their faces on the leaves or stems.
If your cat enjoys this kind of plant, silvervine sticks and powders sold for cats are a safer way to offer the same experience than sharing fruit. They have no sugar, and can be used in toys.
Handling cut fruit
Cut kiwi leaves sticky juice on boards and fingers, and cats may lick it up. Wipe surfaces after preparing it. Do not leave sliced fruit on a plate within reach, because cats that enjoy the scent may return for more than a polite lick. Store cut fruit covered in the refrigerator, and discard peels and cores in a closed bin.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your cat reacts badly to any new food. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is kiwi toxic to cats?
No, but it is not recommended in quantity.
Can cats eat kiwi skin?
It is better to remove it.
Why does my cat like kiwi?
Some cats are attracted to compounds in kiwi plants.
Is kiwi good for cats?
It is not needed, and the sugar is a drawback.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
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.