Will Apples or Bananas Cause Pet Bowel Problems?

Pet owners frequently want to share delicious food with their pets, but this behavior is frequently risky. Human food can make several species of companion animal sick. Fruit like bananas and apples are common causes of diarrhea, particularly in reptiles. Before feeding your pet any human food, consult with your vet or an animal care manual to determine if the food is an appropriate choice.

  1. Reptiles

    • Reptiles have a wide variety of lifestyles and diets, but numerous species of reptiles --- particularly tortoises, turtles and some lizards --- are omnivores. Despite the fact that these reptiles need to consume plant matter, apples and bananas are typically unhealthy choices. Grassland tortoises, for example, require high-fiber grasses and vegetables rather than fruits. When they eat fruits, they frequently develop diarrhea. Most reptiles will consume fruits if given the chance, but these foods are akin to junk food for them. They readily eat apples and bananas, but the food prevents them from consuming healthier foods and can cause long-term digestive problems as well as a host of other illnesses.

    Dogs and Cats

    • Dogs are omnivores who require a diet that is high in protein with very limited plant matter, while cats are obligate carnivores. This means that they must eat a carnivorous diet to remain healthy. Neither dogs nor cats have the ability to break down cellulose, the substance that lines the cells of fruit. Consequently, fruit has no nutritional value for these animals. When cats and dogs eat fruit on a very limited basis as treats, however, it is unlikely to harm them. Large quantities of fruit, especially soft fruits like bananas, can cause digestive problems.

    Rodents

    • Many rodents, including mice and chinchillas, love fruit. When fruit is a part of an otherwise balanced diet, it's beneficial to these small animals. Rodents who are given only fruit, however, are likely to become obese and may develop diarrhea. Chinchillas in particular require lots of hay and grass in their diets in order to maintain a healthy digestive system.

    Rabbits

    • Rabbits can eat apples, bananas and other fruits in small quantities. These foods should be reserved as treats, however. Rabbits love sweet fruits and will readily choose them over hay and pellets, so owners should avoid overfeeding fruits. Too much fruit can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems. Instead, limit fruit to a small piece once or twice a day.