Yes, dogs can “safely” eat plums in moderation. “Safely” here means under the supervision of the dog owners. Some precautions are to be followed while offering plums to your dogs. Since plums contain sharp stone-like seeds (pit), they can cause digestive obstruction if given as a whole fruit. The pit also contains cyanide, so biting the fruit can be poisonous.
Table of Contents
What Is a Plum?
Plums are fruits with thin, smooth skin and juicy flesh with a hard pit or seed in the middle. These belong to Prunus Subgenus species, brought to Britain from Asia. The color of the fruit is either black, purple, or red, yellow. The matured plums bear a dusty white waxy coating which appears grey or bluish-green. The inner pulpy flesh is juicy and amber in color. The black plums are sweet and dried to make prunes.
There are two varieties in plums, the Japanese and the European. The Japanese tend to be oval or heart-shaped and come in black, yellow, or red varieties. European plums, generally lovely and pulpy, are used in baking or making jams and jellies.
Per 100g of Plums contains 46 calories.
Nutritional Value
Carbohydrates
11.42g
Fats
0.28g
Proteins
0.70g
Sugar
10 g
Fiber
1.40g
Vitamin C
9.5mg
Vitamin A
14.2mcg
Vitamin E
0.26mg
Vitamin K
10.6mg
Potassium
240mg
Copper
0.1mg
Manganese
0.1mg
Calcium
6mg
Riboflavin
0.026mg
Thiamine
0.028mg
Sodium
1mg
Potassium
157 mg
Iron
0.17mg
Phosphorus
16mg
Zinc
0.10mg
Is Plum safe for Dogs?
Consider giving plums to your dogs by deseeding the fruit. Dogs can eat the juicy, fleshy portion of plums. However, the pits are sharp, and they could damage the esophagus, stomach, or intestinal tract. In addition, if the pits are crushed, they can probably release the highly toxic cyanide. Finally, keep plums out of your pet’s reach if he suffers from liver diseases. Decreased liver functioning fails to filter the toxins, and his health condition may worsen if they are poisoned by cyanide.
Why Is Plum Good for Dogs?
Potential Health Benefits of Plums on Dogs
Lowers Cholesterol and Improves Digestive health in Dogs
Plums contain both soluble and insoluble fibers. The soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, whereas the insoluble fiber helps prevent constipation problems and reduces the risk of colon cancer. In addition, the good bacteria in this fruit helps to maintain the good gut bacteria aiding in smooth digestion.
Promotes Bone health
Plums are rich in the following nutrients:
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B6
Vitamin E
Vitamin K.
These vitamins help the dog’s overall health and prevent the bones from ailments such as arthritis. In addition, they help in Blood Coagulation, preventing the development of blood clots. This is because vitamin K activates the protein properties.
Supports Eyesight and Skin Health
Plums are rich in vitamin A that supports dog’s eyesight. In addition, the antioxidants present keep your pet’s skin shiny and smooth.
Plums normalize sugar levels and help in weight loss.
The fiber content in plums has other benefits as well. For example, this fruit helps reduce the absorption of glucose, which stabilizes the blood sugar levels in dogs. Thus, a sense of satiety is created by plums which help in cutting down the overeating habits in dogs.
Enhances Immunity
Plums contain a vital number of Vitamin C that helps in increasing the immunity in dogs. In addition, this fruit helps in multiplying lymphocytes which is significant in developing the metabolism.
Aids in preventing major maladies
These stone fruits fulfill the nutrient needs of dogs. In addition, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in plums prevents against severe diseases like diabetes, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and atherosclerosis.
Keeps Hydrated
Plums contain around 87% water content and can make your pet feel hydrated and refreshed. Plums are a good choice of fruits for your pet after a long walk or training sessions on a summer day.
Why Is Plum Bad for Dogs?
Consequences of Eating Plums in Dogs
Gastrointestinal Issues
An excess number of plums can cause stomach upset for dogs. In addition, the acidic nature of plums can cause disturbance in the digestive tract. Look out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, a painful tummy, yelping or growling, lethargy, loss of appetite, and weakness.
Choking and Mutilation of Internal Organs
It is necessary to remove the pits from the plums before feeding since they may be a potential choking hazard. In addition, the pits can be harmful to the esophagus, intestine, and stomach lining since they have sharp edges. Also, accidentally chewing the pits can damage the teeth and gums, leading to dental issues. Symptoms show up as difficulty in breathing, seizures, vomiting, coma, gum bleeding.
Poisoning
Plums can also cause poisoning in dogs. This occurs when the larger breeds swallow or chew and eat the pit. The pit contains cyanide, and this can lead to cyanide poisoning in dogs. Some indications that show up if your pet is affected by cyanide are:
Excessive salivation
Voiding of bladder and bowels
Muscle spasms and tremors
Vomiting, dilated pupils
Difficulty in breathing
Dark, red gums
Unresponsiveness
Shock
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
High Sugar Content
Since fruits contain high sugar contents, however, plums are low in calories. The high sugar content can lead to obesity and issues like diabetes when given in large amounts. In addition, the tinned or canned plums contain added sugar. If your dog has diabetes, then it is best to avoid it. A 60 gram of plum includes 6 grams of sugar, whereas 60 grams of watermelon or strawberries contains 4 grams of sugar, respectively.
How Many Plums to Feed Your Dog?
You can give plums as an occasional treat. It is better to offer in less quantity and the first half of the day while offering first. Any complications in dogs will show up in the daytime, and you can provide treatment quickly. If your dogs are not allergic to plums, they can be de-pitted and fed in moderation. You can either cut the fruit into slices and feed your canines or add them to their meals or snacks.
What if My Dog Ate Plums?
If your dog happens to eat plums, better not panic and call your vet soon. Check if your dog has consumed the remains of the plums or if he has swallowed the pit. Look out for any of these unusual signs:
Loss of Appetite
Lethargy
Difficulty in Breathing
Panting
Stomachache
Aversion to belly rubs
Vomiting
Constipation
Diarrhea
Itchy skin
Since the dangers posed by eating a whole plum are life-threatening, consider keeping it out of reach from your pups. Either in high shelves or compartments of refrigerators that are pet-proof. If your dog has accidentally eaten a plum pit or entire plum, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Helpline at (888) 426-4435, or go to your vet immediately.
Fortunately, there are other options by which your dog can indulge in the plum flavor without risks. For example, NULO Freestyle Duck Recipe Dog Treats provides a dash of plum to serve your dogs the natural flavor and nutrients present in plums.
Tips on How to Serve Fruits for Your Dogs
Be it low fat, tasty treat, or a healthy, nutritious option; fruits are the best option to look for. The following are some tips on how to serve fruits to your pups.
One Fruit at a Time: While introducing fruits to your pup, remember one thing, serve a single type of fruit. For Example: If you are serving plums, serve only pieces of plums and not a combination of plums and bananas.
Gentle Introduction: Just because some fruits are already considered safe, you cannot take them for granted. Ensure you serve a small amount while introducing any fruit. Watch for allergic symptoms for the next twenty-four hours. Serving in a large quantity can upset your dog’s stomach.
Introducing During Daytime: It is best to introduce during the daytime, especially during the first half of the day; this might help you check on any allergies or side effects. Making your vet approachable or reachable during emergencies.
Introducing Some Fruits in Moderate Quantity: Though fruits are good for dogs, you should feed them in moderate quantities. Some fruits like strawberries or bananas may be high in sugar and result in high blood sugar levels.
Prudent Preparation: Thoroughly wash the fruits that you are serving your dogs. Remove the peels. Don’t forget to deseed the fruits. Do not give a whole fruit to your dogs to eat. Instead, remove the pits or seeds, cut them into slices, and serve small quantities. Serving fruits in pieces has two advantages; your pet won’t suffer choking hazards or any internal organ damage since you can check if a fruit has seeds or is spoiled or good to go. Also, small pieces aid in easy digestion. Some fruit seeds like apples, plums, pears, avocados, mangoes, grapefruit, oranges, peaches, and apricots can be hazardous to your canines due to the cyanide property present in the seeds. Chewing seeds that are even smaller in size can be poisonous.
Do not serve Sun Dried Fruits: Some fruits that are edible when sundried are not a correct choice for your furry friends. For example, fruits like raisins or prunes can be suitable for adult human beings, but they might be potentially dangerous to your puppy friends. So do not serve or introduce sun dried fruits to dogs.
Make a Chart: Consult your vet and make a list of fruits that are “good to go” and avoid the fruits that might not be a suitable option to serve. Check if your pets can adapt to the “dog-edible” fruits which are introduced.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach consider supporting their digestive system with some Pet Probiotics to reduce the possibility of an upset stomach.
Alternatives to Plums for Your Dog
A few healthy alternatives that you can consider feeding your pet includes:
Apples
Bananas
Blueberries
Pumpkins
Kiwis
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can dogs eat whole plums?
No, dogs should not eat whole plums of any type. It would be best if you always de-seeded it and then offered it in slices.
Can dogs have plum juice?
Any fruit juice is not recommended since they contain sugars that are not suitable for health.
Can dogs eat dried plum?
Dried plums are called Prunes. Dogs cannot eat Prunes since they can be a choking hazard. Prunes soaked in water and softened are good to go.
Can dogs eat plum cake?
No, dogs should not be given plum cakes since they may have sugar contents that may cause diabetes if not given moderately.
Can dogs eat cooked plums?
Yes, dogs can eat cooked plums, provided there is no extra sugar added.
Will a dog digest a plum pit?
No, dogs cannot digest a plum pit, if swallowed, can cause internal organ destruction.
Can Plums kill Dogs?
Eating a whole plum with the pit can have some dangerous consequences that can be life-threatening and dog poisoning. However, dogs have to consume several pits for them to suffer from cyanide poisoning. In addition, plum pits can obstruct the digestive tract and sometimes cause choking in smaller dogs if left unattended.
How much Cyanide is in a Plum Pit?
The amygdalin content in red-, yellow- and purple-colored plums are 0.44mg/g, 1.54mg/g, and 2.16mg/g, respectively.
Can Plums cause Diarrhea in Dogs?
The high sugar content can cause diarrhea in dogs, so it is advisable to offer a moderate amount at a time.
Final Thoughts:
Yes, dogs can safely eat plums when they are washed, cut into slices, and deseeded. Plum pits contain amygdalin which is broken down into cyanide when swallowed. Observe if anything looks out of the ordinary in your dogs, and contact your vet accordingly. When given a limited amount, plums can make a delicious treat, snack, and superfood for your dogs.
