Has your cat eaten some lemon? Are you worried the lemon will make your cat sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when our kitties eat something they shouldn’t.
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
In this article, we’ll take a look at lemons and whether or not they can make your cat sick. Let’s get started!
What are Lemons?
Lemons are a citrus fruit that’s extremely popular all around the world. It’s used alone or combined with other ingredients to make yummy dishes. Lemons can be added to sauces, marinades, drinks, baked goods, desserts, and more.
Lemons, like other citrus fruits, contain valuable nutrients. One of the main vitamins found in lemons is vitamin C.
While lemons are healthy for humans, can they make your cat sick? Will your cat get sick from eating lemons?
Lemons & Cats
Unfortunately, lemons can be toxic for cats. Even a small amount of lemon is enough to make your cat sick. The substances in lemons that are toxic for cats include linalool and limonene. Every part of the fruit is toxic for cats, including the skin and the seeds.
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Lemon Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms in your cat if she’s eaten lemon:
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Skin irritation/rash
- Weakness
- Cold limbs
- Liver failure
- Tremors
- Low blood pressure
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, call the vet immediately. This is a medical emergency. Even a small amount of lemon can cause sudden death in a cat.
Treatment of Lemon Toxicity in Cats
At the vet’s, they will perform a complete physical on your cat. This will include lab work and may also include taking a specimen of the cat’s stool and vomit. The vet may also run neurological tests to check your cat’s reflexes and coordination.
The vet may choose to treat your cat using gastric lavage, which washes the lemon from the cat’s stomach. They may also use activated charcoal.
The rest of the cat’s treatment will depend on her symptoms. The vet will treat these as necessary. Expect that your fur baby will probably require an IV for fluids and to administer medications if needed.
In most cases, if a cat receives prompt medical care, she will make a complete recovery. Recovery time will vary, depending on how sick your cat has been.
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
Ask a Vet Live Now
