Which Summer Fruits Are Safe for Pets? 10 Treats to Share (and Avoid!)

Who doesn’t love a juicy piece of ripe fruit on a hot summer’s day? While many fruits are safe to share with our pets, there are some that are dangerous for them to ingest. This guide will help you discover which fruits you can share, and which ones you should keep just for yourself this summer.

Local and Organic

Stocking up at the Los Gatos Framer’s Market or any local grocery store is a great way to get started with summer treats for dogs and cats. Whether you give your pet raw, blended, or frozen fruits to your pet, you can relax knowing that they are getting something healthy and satisfying.

Among the best pet-safe fruits, we can easily get behind these offered in small amounts throughout the summer:

• Blueberries are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which promotes cognitive health and immunity. Delicious when frozen and popped right into a pet’s waiting mouth.
• Strawberries and raspberries are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants and actually support dental health. Dogs like these when mashed up or combined with other fruits.
• Pineapple is packed with digestive enzymes and health-promoting vitamins.
• Watermelon (no seeds or rind) are full of vitamins A, C, and B6. It is a great support for the skin and coat.
• Similarly, cantaloupe or other melon are just as satisfying, hydrating and delicious. Just remember, no rind or seeds for pets.
• Mango (no pit or skin) is rich in potassium, beta-carotene, and lots of other vitamins that enhance eye health.
• Apples and pears (no seeds) have a lot of fiber, which helps with digestion. The flavor can lend itself to freshening a pet’s breath as well.
• Peaches have loads of vitamins and are so tasty and juicy to boot! Just be sure that your pet never chews on or eats the pit!
• Bananas may be available year round but they are always welcome by pets that enjoy pieces mixed with peanut butter.
• Coconut is high in healthy fats, fiber, and loaded with anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Small pieces can give pets energy and can even promote healthy skin and coat.

When preparing your pet’s summer snacks, be sure to wash the food thoroughly, remove all seeds and stems, and feed small portions. Watch how the foods affect their digestion and bathroom habits and adjust accordingly.

Other Considerations

While figuring out what your pet likes and how they like it prepared, it’s a good idea to focus on foods that should not be given during this experimentation period. Avoid giving pets:

• Grapes
• Raisins
• Cherries
• Citrus

If you have additional questions about pet-safe fruits to add to your pet’s meals and snacks this summer, please give us a call at (408) 402-3071. Our staff is always here to help at The Whole Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center.