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Can Cats Eat Apricots (pitted)?

The short answer for Cats: The flesh is safe in small pieces. The pit, leaves and stem contain cyanide compounds — never allow a whole apricot.

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

with care

CAUTION — limited — Apricots (pitted) for Cats

Why limited

Keep Apricots (pitted) to small, occasional amounts. Sensitive pets may react to it, and sugar- or fat-heavy foods raise the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.

The flesh is safe in small pieces. The pit, leaves and stem contain cyanide compounds — never allow a whole apricot.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.

If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.

Other foods that need limits

The full A–Z food list groups every food by verdict for each species.

Why these cautions matter

Stone-fruit pits and some seeds release cyanide when crushed, and quite apart from that they are a choking and blockage hazard.

Frequently asked questions

Can cats eat Apricots (pitted)?

CAUTION — limited. The flesh is safe in small pieces. The pit, leaves and stem contain cyanide compounds — never allow a whole apricot.

How much Apricots (pitted) can cats have?

Keep Apricots (pitted) to small, occasional pieces and never part of the main meal. It is classed as with care, so pets with a sensitive gut, pancreatitis or diabetes should skip Apricots (pitted) entirely.

What reaction should I watch for after cats eats Apricots (pitted)?

In the 24 hours after cats eats Apricots (pitted), look for vomiting, diarrhoea, gas or a drop in appetite. The flesh is safe in small pieces. The pit, leaves and stem contain cyanide compounds — never allow a whole apricot.

How often can cats have Apricots (pitted)?

Save Apricots (pitted) for rare moments rather than building it into a routine; your cat may enjoy it, but that alone does not make it fit to feed often.

What are safer treats than Apricots (pitted) for cats?

Pick from the safe list instead — Cardamom or xanthan gum carry none of the risk that Apricots (pitted) does, and they work better as an everyday treat.

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How about Dogs eating Apricots (pitted)? with care — CAUTION — limited

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