Sweet and refreshing, cantaloupe is a favorite summer fruit for a reason. Much like watermelon, the low-calorie fruit has a high water and fiber content and is full of nutrients. But can your cat reap some of the refreshment and good-for-you vitamins and minerals found in cantaloupe?
Generally speaking, it’s safe for cats to eat melon fruits like cantaloupe. But, of course, moderation is key.
As with any new food you might be considering offering your cat, you should always check in with your veterinarian who can provide guidance on feeing your unique and individual pet. It’s also a good idea to introduce a new food—even a healthy fruit or veggie like cantaloupe—to your cat slowly with a few small pieces at first so you can monitor for an allergic reaction or any indication that he or she can’t tolerate it (such as diarrhea, for example).
Cantaloupe is an excellent source of dietary fiber, folate, vitamin B6, A, and C, niacin, and potassium, while also being low in calories and a rich source of both fiber and water. And the good news is that both you and your kitty can benefit from the vitamins and nutrients found in cantaloupe.
In particular, vitamins A and C provide an array of health benefits for cats, such as their role as antioxidants. Antioxidants capture free radicals, which can effectively slow down your cat’s aging process and promote healthy cell function, as well as help reduce the risk of certain diseases. Cantaloupe’s high water and fiber content also helps facilitate healthy digestion while helping to prevent issues like constipation and dehydration.
The issue with many fruits, including cantaloupe, is that they are high in sugar. Even though it’s a natural, good-for-you sugar, it’s still not the best for cats because it can cause weight gain as well as exacerbate health issues such as diabetes. Pet owners of cats that already have these types of health issues should be especially cautious about feeding their cat fruits like cantaloupe.
Another danger of cantaloupe is that like other melon fruits, it contains a rind. And if your cat consumes it, it can lead to big problems—much like watermelon rinds, consuming them can not only cause gastrointestinal upset, but they can become impacted in your cat’s digestive tract. The tough, fibrous skins of the rinds are also a choking hazard.
Additionally, while the seeds of a cantaloupe are technically harmless, you should try to avoid allowing your cat to eat them as they can be a choking hazard. You’ll also want to prevent your cat from licking the outside of a cantaloupe; as with many fruits and vegetables, the outer skin can contain harmful bacteria as well as pesticides and other chemicals that can make your cat ill.
When it comes to cantaloupe, a few bite-size pieces are likely perfectly fine for most cat—although you’ll want to skip this particular treat if your cat has a sensitive stomach or is diabetic. Too much cantaloupe can cause GI upset in both humans and their feline counterparts. If your cat eats cantaloupe and then presents symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or lack of appetite, you’ll want to alert your veterinarian right away.
As when offering all fruit, it’s important to thoroughly wash and scrub the outer surface prior to preparation (this will prevent bacteria or pesticides from contaminating the fruit as you start to open and cut it up for your pet). You’ll also want to remove the seeds and rind, and slice the melon into small one- or two-inch-thick bite-sized wedges (just keep in mind the size of your cat when cutting).
Cantaloupe should only be fed as a special treat, and not part of their regular diet. You can even put cantaloupe into a Kong or other puzzle toy to provide an exciting—and tasty—mental exercise for your cat.
How Long Should Kittens Stay With Their Mothers?
Kittens need their mothers for more than just milk. Find out how long kittens should stay with their mothers and why.15 Adorable Persian Cats Names
Pick the perfect Persian cat name from this list of top options, including names that describe your cat's beauty and or regal personality.Can Cats Eat Blueberries?
Learn all about the potential health concerns, benefits, and safe ways to feed blueberries to cats.Cat Food Ingredients to Avoid
When checking the nutrition content of cat food, look for ingredients that are not healthy or show it is of poor quality. Avoid these 3 ingredients.10 Obscure, Little-known Canine Facts in Honor of National Dog Day
With National Dog Day upon us, it's time to celebrate everything about our favorite pets—even the weirder stuff. Here are 10 obscure facts about dogs you probably didn't know.Why Is My Dog Scooting Across the Floor?
If your dog is scooting its rear end across the floor, it may be impacted or infected anal glands. Learn how to identify and prevent this problem.Why Do Dogs Lick Their Wounds?
Dogs lick their wounds in response to pain or irritation, but in most cases, the licking of wounds should not be allowed.What to Give Your Dog If It Has Diarrhea
If your dog has diarrhea, you'll want to quickly fix the problem and get your dog's poop back to normal. Find out what's safe to give your dog.Keeshond: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
Learn about the keeshond dog, also known as the Dutch Barge Dog. This fluffy spitz breed was bred to guard, but also makes a friendly companion.How to Train Your Cat to Accept Mirror Reflections
Cats and mirrors can be a source of amusement or a trigger for aggressive behavior. Learn how to soothe an upset cat when it attacks a mirror.Why Do Cats Like Catnip?
Catnip can make some cats react in interesting ways. Learn why cats like catnip so much, why only some cats react to it, and why others seem immune.How to Stop Cats From Biting and Scratching
Cats learn to bite and scratch as kittens and may need to be retrained when they grow older. These behaviors can be changed with time and patience.How to Stop Your Cat From Chewing Electrical Cords
Cats are known to pounce and attack inanimate objects, like electrical cords. Learn how to prevent your cat from ambushing objects that may harm it.What to Do if Your Cat Is Peeing in the Bathtub
If your cat is peeing in the bathtub on a regular basis it means there is a problem. Find out if it is a health, behaviorial, or other type of issue.Old English Sheepdog: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
Learn about Old English sheepdogs, a hard-working breed with much more to offer. It's known for its adorably shaggy coat and friendly personality.Bernedoodle: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
The Bernedoodle is a hybrid dog breed created by crossing Bernese mountain dogs with poodles. Learn about their fun-loving personality and common health issues.6 Egyptian Dog Breeds and Their Rich Histories
Some of the oldest dog breeds, like salukis and basenjis, date back to ancient Egypt. These six canines had their start in the land of the Nile.Understanding Dog Growling
Get information on how to interpret dog growling and how to keep it from escalating to dog aggression.How to Train Your Dog to Live With Another Dog
When you add a second dog to your household, it's natural that there will be an adjustment period. Learn how to get two dogs to become acquainted.How to Train Your Dog to Be off the Leash
Letting your dog off the leash can create dangerous situations. Learn how to train your dog so you can trust it to play off the leash.