Unripened pineapples

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Vomiting Shortly after ingestion. · Mild-to-moderate, self-limiting gastrointestinal upset from bromelain and high fibre/sugar content.
2. 2
   Diarrhea Shortly after ingestion. · Mild-to-moderate, self-limiting gastrointestinal upset from high insoluble fibre and sugar.
3. 3
   Oral pain and mouth irritation Shortly after ingestion. · Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, irritates the mucous membranes of the mouth; spiny rind and leaves can add mechanical irritation.
4. 4
   Drooling (hypersalivation) Shortly after ingestion. · Hypersalivation typically accompanies oral irritation from bromelain and fibrous plant parts.

Important notes

Ripe pineapple flesh is not toxic to cats in very small amounts, but it is high in sugar and not a recommended treat. The main danger comes from unripe pineapple and the pineapple plant itself, including the skin, core, and leaves. These parts are hazardous to cats. The primary concern with unripe pineapple is its high concentration of bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down protein. When a cat eats it, this enzyme can cause significant irritation and pain in the mouth, as well as stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. The tough, fibrous parts of the plant can also be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues. To be safe, only offer your cat a tiny piece of ripe pineapple flesh on rare occasions, if at all. Never allow them to chew on unripe pineapple or any part of the plant. If your cat ingests these parts, monitor them for symptoms and contact your veterinarian for advice, especially if they show signs of oral pain or persistent vomiting.

• Bromelain risk: unripe pineapple has high bromelain concentrations — a proteolytic enzyme that causes intense oral irritation and mucosal inflammation
• Leaves, skin, and core: contain high bromelain plus insoluble fibres that irritate the GI tract; not appropriate for cats
• Ripe flesh: very small amounts are not toxic but are high in sugar; cats lack functional sweet taste receptors so show little interest
• Symptoms from unripe parts: oral pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea
• Do not offer unripe pineapple or plant parts; contact your vet if large amounts were consumed