Kitchen · cat safety
Can cats eat lemon or orange?
Mild
A little is unlikely to cause more than a minor upset — the citric acid and oils in the peel, leaves and seeds irritate. Citrus essential oil is another matter: never diffuse it near cats or put it on them.
Why mild: A little fruit causes at most a minor upset; citrus essential oils are a serious hazard.
- Name
- Lemon and orangealso Nimbu, Santara, Citrus
- Hindi
- नींबू / संतरा · nimbu / santara
What counts
Stems, leaves, peel, fruit and seeds irritate; concentrated citrus oil is dangerous.
What's in it
Citric acid and essential oils.
Where it hides
- Lemon slices, nimbu pani
- Orange peels in the bin
- Citrus-scented cleaners and oils
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting, diarrhoea
- Mouth irritation
What to do
A lick: just watch. Citrus oil on the skin or licked: go to a vet now — see essential oils.
Sources
Facts last checked
General information for cat parents, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan. The facts come from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, International Cat Care, the Merck Veterinary Manual and the other sources listed on every page — and we say so when the evidence comes from dogs or people. If your cat may have eaten something harmful, call your vet.