Fruits
Can dogs and cats eat apricots?
Short answer on apricots: safe only with care for dogs, safe for cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.
One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
The verdict changes by species: caution for dogs and safe for cats.
The two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line, signs to watch, and serving guidance for your pet below.
- Safety label differs
- Bottom line differs
- Signs to watch differs
- Serving guidance differs
Apricots safety for dogs
Do not offer a whole apricot to a dog. The stem, leaves, and seed contain cyanogenic compounds, and the pit is also a choking and intestinal blockage hazard.
Toxic principle: Cyanogenic glycosides in the stem, leaves, and seed
Watch for
- difficulty breathing
- dilated pupils
- brick-red gums
- shock
- choking or intestinal blockage from the pit
Apricots safety for cats
Fresh apricot flesh is safe for cats as an occasional treat, but the stem, leaves, and pit must be removed because they contain cyanogenic compounds and the pit can obstruct the digestive tract.
Toxic principle: Cyanogenic glycosides in the stem, leaves, and seed
Safe serving: Only a small piece of washed flesh with the stem, leaves, and pit completely removed.
Questions owners ask about apricots
Can dogs eat apricots?
Do not offer a whole apricot to a dog. The stem, leaves, and seed contain cyanogenic compounds, and the pit is also a choking and intestinal blockage hazard.
Is apricots safe for every dog?
Not necessarily. Do not offer a whole apricot to a dog. The stem, leaves, and seed contain cyanogenic compounds, and the pit is also a choking and intestinal blockage hazard. Ask your veterinarian first if your dog has an existing health condition or you are unsure.
What symptoms should I watch for with apricots and dogs?
difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, brick-red gums, shock, choking or intestinal blockage from the pit. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Can cats eat apricots?
Fresh apricot flesh is safe for cats as an occasional treat, but the stem, leaves, and pit must be removed because they contain cyanogenic compounds and the pit can obstruct the digestive tract.
How much apricots can I give my cat?
Only a small piece of washed flesh with the stem, leaves, and pit completely removed.. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.