Last Updated on January 6, 2023 by admin
Cats should not eat tangerines, or any other citrus fruit, as they can be toxic to cats. If your cat ingests one, you should take them to a vet right away. Even small quantities of tangerines can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats, so it is best to avoid feeding them to your feline. Eating multiple stems of tangerines can also lead to a gastrointestinal blockage. Tangerines smell of intense citrus essential oils which cats don’t usually find appealing, so your kitty is unlikely to eat them even if you offer them the fruit. It is always better to be safe than sorry and it is best to avoid giving your cat tangerines.
What Are Tangerines?
Tangerines are a type of citrus fruit that is related to mandarins and oranges. They are usually smaller than oranges, but they have a sweet, juicy flavor and are rich in vitamins and minerals. Tangerines are high in vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and dietary fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack for humans.
Are Tangerines Safe for Cats?
Unfortunately, tangerines are not safe for cats to eat. All citrus fruits including tangerines are dangerous to cats. The high sugar content in tangerines can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats, and the essential oils and psoralens they contain can be toxic. If your cat ingests any tangerine, you should take them to a vet immediately. Therefore, it is best to keep your feline away from tangerines and other citrus fruits.
What Are Some Alternative Foods for Cats?
Although cats should not eat tangerines, there are plenty of other options available to provide them with the nutrition they need. Some alternatives include cooked meat, fish, and eggs, as well as whole grains and vegetables. Cats should be on a primarily carnivore diet. Even commercial cat food can contain more carbohydrates, primarily from plant sources like corn, than cats really need in order to keep production costs down. Be sure to read the label to make sure the treat is nutritionally balanced and does not contain any other ingredients that could be harmful to your cat.
What Are the Signs of Tangerine Toxicity in Cats?
It is important to note that cats can get poisoned by tangerines if they eat them in large quantities. If your kitty has ingested a tangerine, be sure to watch out for signs of toxicity, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs in your cat after they have eaten a tangerine, you should take them to the vet immediately.
How to Prevent Cats from Eating Tangerines?
It’s important to take steps to prevent cats from eating tangerines, as they can be harmful to cats. The best way to do this is to keep tangerines out of reach, making sure they are stored in a safe place that is not accessible by cats. It’s also a good idea to keep cats away from areas where tangerines are being prepared or eaten. If you have citrus trees in your yard, make sure your cats can’t access them. Finally, if you know your cat has eaten a tangerine, contact your veterinarian right away.
What to Do If Your Cat Has Eaten a Tangerine?
If you suspect that your cat has eaten a tangerine, it is important to take them to the vet immediately. The vet will conduct a physical examination and may also take blood tests to check for citrus poisoning. If the cat is showing signs of poisoning, the vet may administer intravenous fluids, medications, or other treatments to help them recover. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. If your cat has ingested a large amount of tangerine, it is important to seek immediate medical attention as the effects can be fatal.