The quick answer: Yes, watermelon is safe for cats to eat.
Benefits of watermelons
Comprised of 92% water, this juicy fruit can be quite beneficial to cats who tend to not drink enough water on their own. Watermelon provides a natural source of hydration, making it both tasty and refreshing. Keeping your kitty hydrated can potentially help prevent kidney problems and UTIs.
Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C as well as dietary fiber. Fiber can aid in keeping your cat’s digestive system running regularly. Plus, watermelon is very low in calories, so it gives your cat a hydrating treat without the guilt of calorie-dense cat treats.
Hazards of watermelon for cats
Before setting a whole watermelon in front of your kitty, there are a few things to know about sharing watermelon with a cat.
Seeds: Be sure to remove the seeds before sharing watermelon with your cat. Watermelon seeds can pose a choking hazard or may cause digestive troubles if too many are consumed.
Rind: Though the rind is not toxic, it is quite tough and very difficult for a cat to digest. (It’s probably unlikely that he’d want to try it anyway!)
Moderation: A complete cat food is the most nutritious diet for your furry friend, so watermelon and any other treats you share with your cat should make up no more than 10% of his diet. Too much watermelon can make your cat sick, plus it contains sugar which cats have no nutritional need for. It can also lead to nutrient deficiencies if he is eating it on a regular basis, thereby eating less of his nutritious food.
