Can dogs or cats eat pomegranate?

Can dogs eat pomegranates? It's complicted.

Pomegranates are a rich source of vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial for your dog's health. They contain high levels of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, nutrients which boost the immune system and help maintain good digestion. However, it is important to remember that pomegranate seeds can't easily be broken down by your dog's digestive system, and can therefore cause gastrointestinal upset and digestive blockages.

If you want your dog to get a taste of some tangy pomegranate, pomegranate peel extract is safest. (In fact, one 2017 study found that it's good for canine digestion.) If you do want to feed your dog the actual fruit, you should only feed them the arils (i.e., the reddish fruit that surrounds the seed). This means you'll need to completely extract the seeds from the arils, which is easier said than done! You may wind up with little more than pomegranate juice.

It's also important to make sure that your dog doesn't eat any pieces of pomegranate rind or stem, which can cause digestive blockages.

And keep in mind that feeding your dog too much fruit can cause digestive problems due to the high sugar content. Fruits like pomegranate should never be anything more than an occasional treat.

Always consult your vet before introducing a new food into your dog's diet. If your canine companion eats pomegranate (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. And if your pup ever requires veterinary care due to something they ate, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.