Watermelon is refreshing, sweet, and one of the best summer fruits for humans. But if your curious cat tries to sniff or lick a piece, you might wonder: Can cats eat watermelon?
The quick answer is yes — cats can eat a small amount of seedless watermelon as an occasional treat. It’s non-toxic and safe in moderation. But there are important precautions you must follow.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know: safety, serving size, health benefits, risks, and whether watermelon is even good for cats.
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Banana? A Complete Guide for Cat Owners
Moreover, I have written a complete list of safe, unsafe & toxic fruits that your cats can have or not, check it out the complete guide: Can Cats Eat Fruits? The Complete List (Safe, Unsafe, Toxic, How Much & Vet Guide)
Is Watermelon Safe for Cats?
Yes, watermelon is safe for cats as long as:
- It has no seeds
- It has no rind
- You give only a tiny amount
- It’s an occasional treat, not daily food
The ASPCA classifies watermelon fruit (without seeds) as non-toxic for cats.
However, cats don’t need watermelon nutritionally, so it should only be a fun, rare treat.
Do Cats Even Like Watermelon?
Some cats enjoy watermelon because:
- They like the texture
- It has a refreshing water content
- They might be curious about what you’re eating
But many cats may show no interest at all — which is normal.
Cats don’t taste sweetness because they lack the “sweet receptor” on their tongue. So their interest in watermelon is usually about texture or moisture, not flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon (For Cats)
Watermelon is 90% water and contains:
- Vitamins A, B6, and C
- Potassium
- Antioxidants
- Lycopene
- Fiber
Cats don’t need fruit for nutrition, but watermelon can provide a few mild benefits.
✔ 1. Hydration Boost
Watermelon is mostly water, so it can help cats stay hydrated during hot weather — especially if they don’t drink much on their own.
✔ 2. Low in Calories
A tiny piece won’t affect weight.
✔ 3. Contains Antioxidants
Not essential for cats, but not harmful either.
✔ 4. Good for Enrichment
A new texture or smell can enrich your cat’s environment.
Risks of Feeding Watermelon to Cats
Watermelon is safe, but only when you avoid the risky parts.
1. Seeds Can Be Dangerous
Watermelon seeds contain cyanide compounds, which are dangerous to cats (and dogs). Swallowing seeds can also cause choking or intestinal blockage.
❗ Always remove ALL seeds before feeding.
2. Rind Is Not Safe
The rind is:
- Hard
- Tough
- Difficult for cats to digest
- A choking hazard
It can cause an upset stomach or constipation if eaten.
3. Too Much Sugar
Watermelon is high in natural sugar.
Too much can cause:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Stomach cramps
- Weight gain
- Blood sugar spikes (dangerous for diabetic cats)
4. Digestive Sensitivity
Some cats may react badly even to a small amount.
Watch for:
- Loose stool
- Lethargy
- Drooling
- Vomiting
Stop feeding immediately if you see these signs.
How Much Watermelon Is Safe for Cats?
Follow the 90/10 rule:
90% of diet = cat food
10% of diet = treats
But for watermelon, go even smaller.
🟢 Safe Serving Size
- A pea-sized piece
- Or a few small, soft cubes
- Once every 1–2 weeks
❌ Do NOT give:
- A whole slice
- Big chunks
- Watermelon daily
Cats don’t need fruit, so keep it minimal.
How to Feed Watermelon to Cats Safely (Step-by-Step)
1. Choose seedless watermelon
Or manually remove every seed.
2. Remove the rind completely
Only the soft red part is safe.
3. Cut it into tiny pieces
Small enough to avoid choking.
4. Offer a pea-sized amount
This is plenty for a taste.
5. Serve it plain
No salt, no sugar, no seasoning.
6. Monitor your cat
Keep an eye on your cat for 24 hours after trying a new food.
Which Cats Should Not Eat Watermelon?
Avoid watermelon completely if your cat has:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Pancreatitis
- Chronic stomach issues
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
- Is a kitten under 6 months
For these cats, sugar and fiber can be harmful.
Can Cats Eat Watermelon Juice?
No. Watermelon juice has a higher concentration of sugar. Even homemade juice is not good for cats.
Can Cats Eat Watermelon-Flavored Treats?
Avoid them.
Flavored treats often contain:
- Artificial colors
- Preservatives
- Sweeteners (xylitol is deadly)
Always check labels — or stick to cat-specific treats.
Can Cats Eat Yellow or Orange Watermelon?
Yes, but the same rules apply:
- No seeds
- No rind
- Very tiny portions
Color does not affect safety.
Is Watermelon Good for Hydration?
Technically yes — but wet cat food or cat-safe broths are far better hydration options.
Watermelon should not replace fresh water or proper hydration methods.
Healthier Alternatives to Watermelon for Cats
If you want to give your cat a safe treat, try:
✔ Cooked chicken (best choice)
✔ Freeze-dried salmon
✔ Tuna flakes
✔ Plain cooked egg (tiny amount)
✔ Commercial cat treats
✔ Plain pumpkin puree (great for digestion)
These are far more suitable for a carnivore’s diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the fruit is safe. Seeds and rind are not.
No. Kittens should avoid fruits completely.
Only if you thaw it slightly and remove the seeds. Frozen chunks can be choking hazards.
Yes, due to the sugar and fiber content.
No — seeds can be harmful and are a choking risk.
Final Verdict: Can Cats Eat Watermelon?
Yes — cats can eat a small, seedless, rind-free piece of watermelon as an occasional treat.
It’s safe, hydrating, and refreshing, but not nutritionally necessary. Always serve only tiny pieces and avoid feeding watermelon frequently or in large amounts.
If your cat likes it, offer a tiny bite once in a while.
If they don’t care for it, that’s perfectly normal too.
Watermelon should be a fun taste, not a replacement for proper cat food.