Can dogs or cats eat clementines?

9 October 2023

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat clementines?

So you're munching on clementines and wondering if your dog can join the citrus party. Good news, dog parents—clementines get the green light for your pup, with caveats.

Clementines are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that can give your dog's immune system a boost (yay!). But before you start tossing clementine segments like confetti, remember: moderation is key. Too many, and you're setting your pup up for an upset tummy or even a one-way ticket to obesity.

And something else that's not so a-peeling about this snack—those peels could spell trouble for your pet, from choking hazards to gut blockages.

The bottom line? Share a peeled clementine segment or two as a special treat, but don't make it a regular menu item. When in doubt, a quick chat with your vet can clear up any citrusy concerns, especially if your dog has specific health issues like diabetes.

If your dog eats clementines and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, dog insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

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Can cats eat clementines?

So you've discovered the joy of clementines—those juicy, easy-to-peel snacks that are practically sunshine in a bite. But before you toss a slice to your purring sidekick, hold off.

Cats are missing some key players in their liver's enzyme lineup, making them citrus intolerant. When they munch on clementines, essential oils like limonene and linalool stage a hostile takeover of their digestive system. The result? A not-so-fun feline fiesta of vomiting or diarrhoea, and in the worst-case scenario, neurological symptoms like tremors or even seizures.

So, as tempting as it is to share your citrus stash, let's keep the clementines a human-only treat. There are plenty of cat-approved snacks out there that won't turn your fur baby into a science experiment.

If your cat eats clementines and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.