Why?
The pulp is acidic, and the peel is packed with essential oils such as limonene and linalool, plus compounds called psoralens. Cats process some of these poorly, which makes them more sensitive than we are. The result can be vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and sometimes skin that's sensitive to sunlight. Most cats hate the smell of citrus, and that's a good thing.
How much?
No amount is recommended: no segments, no juice, no zest. Don't leave peels lying around, since some cats chew them out of curiosity.
The risks
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Heavy drooling and mouth irritation
- Lethargy or wobbliness (oils in the peel)
- Skin sensitivity to sunlight (psoralens)
Your cat ate some: what now?
A small bite of pulp usually causes, at worst, a passing stomach upset: watch your cat for 24 to 48 hours. If your cat chewed peel, ate a fair amount, or is vomiting, drooling heavily or seems lethargic, call your vet. Don't try to make your cat vomit yourself.
Better options
For something fresh and safe, offer two or three blueberries. And if your cat likes chewing on plants, cat grass is made for that.
Common questions
My cat licked orange juice, is that bad?
A few drops of juice aren't dangerous, though they may cause mild irritation. Keep an eye on your cat and call your vet if there's vomiting or heavy drooling.
Can I use orange peels to keep my cat off plants?
It's a common trick, but not risk-free: if your cat chews the peels, it swallows the oils. Above all, avoid citrus essential oils and sprays, which are far more concentrated.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.