Can dogs eat watermelon? And cats?
Hydrating and safe. Serve seedless flesh without the rind.
Safe in small amounts of seedless flesh.
Watermelon flesh is mostly water and a favorite summer treat for many dogs. Scoop it clear of seeds and do not share the rind: the tough green rind is hard to digest and can cause GI upset or, in enthusiastic gulpers, a blockage. Frozen chunks make an easy hot-day treat.
Signs to watch for
- Rind or many seeds: stomach upset or blockage
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control people-foods guidance, Merck Veterinary Manual, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).