Can cats eat tangerines?
Better not: cats shouldn’t eat tangerines. Tangerines are citrus fruits, and ASPCA lists the orange plant as toxic to dogs and cats. ASPCA says the fruit itself is edible. We’re more cautious with cats than with dogs because Merck notes that cats are generally more sensitive to essential oils, though it doesn’t mention citrus specifically.
Good to know: A small bite of the fruit is unlikely to cause more than minor stomach upset (ASPCA). Keep peels, seeds and leaves out of your cat’s reach.
Better choices, for example
Questions
Are tangerine peels toxic to cats?
Yes, in larger amounts: ASPCA says the stems, leaves, peels, fruit and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid and essential oils that can cause irritation and possibly even depression if eaten in significant quantities. Merck notes that cats are especially sensitive to essential oils because they are deficient in an enzyme called glucuronyl transferase.
Are tangerine trees toxic to cats?
Yes, keep them out of reach: ASPCA has no separate entry for the tangerine tree, but it lists the orange, a citrus plant like the tangerine, as toxic to cats. Signs it lists include vomiting, diarrhea and depression, and possibly skin irritation.
My cat ate a piece of tangerine. What should I do?
A bite of the fruit is unlikely to cause more than minor stomach upset (ASPCA). If your cat got into the peel or leaves, ate a larger amount or is vomiting, call your vet.
Sources
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-toxic Plants – Orange (citrus)
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Toxicoses From Essential Oils in Animals
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control – People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Last checked: October 2026