Why?
Watermelon is mostly water and isn't toxic, but the flesh contains sugar your cat doesn't need. The black seeds can cause choking or build up in the gut, and the tough, fibrous rind can't be digested. Too much watermelon at once easily causes diarrhea.
How much?
Two or three small cubes of red flesh now and then is enough. Remove all the seeds and the rind, and serve it plain, at room temperature or slightly chilled.
The risks
- Seeds: choking or blockage
- Indigestible rind
- Diarrhea from too much fruit
- Extra sugar for diabetic cats
Your cat ate some: what now?
A little watermelon is not dangerous. Watch for diarrhea, vomiting, a sore belly or loss of appetite over the next 24 to 48 hours. Call your vet if your cat swallowed rind or a lot of seeds, or if those signs appear.
Better options
To help your cat drink more in hot weather, a water fountain or wet food works better. As a treat, a small piece of plain cooked fish is a better fit.
Common questions
Can cats eat watermelon seeds?
They aren't toxic, but they can cause choking or, in numbers, a blockage. Remove them before sharing.
Can watermelon keep my cat hydrated in summer?
A little, but not much. To get your cat drinking more, rely on wet food, a fountain or several bowls of fresh water around the house.
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.