Can dogs or cats eat dates?

September 18, 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 dates?

Is your dog ready for their first date with...dates?

The good news is that dogs can have dates in moderation! They're full of vitamins such as vitamin B6, iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and selenium, which are beneficial for the overall health of dogs.

However, despite their health halo, dates are also full of sugar. Too many dates could lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting and, eventually, obesity in your dog.

Try feeding a teeny square at a time, and make sure to avoid the pit, as it can be a choking hazard.

If your dog eats dates and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, 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.

Can cats eat dates?

Is your cat pining for a bite of a tasty date?

Dates offer a range of antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory properties. However, they also add quite a bit of unnecessary sugar to your cat's diet. A teeny piece may be fine, but too much can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea or other gastrointestinal ailments in cats. In the long term, that added sugar could contribute to your cat developing diabetes or obesity. Not good!

If your cat eats dates and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, 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.

Food Safety Statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet