Cats are known as finicky eaters who are overly curious about almost everything, and that includes what we eat. But how do our small furry friends feel about veggies? Many people avoid eating vegetables because they are healthy and potentially not all that tasty. Cats, on the other paw, do not care about counting calories and are carnivores who tend to stick to meat. Let’s delve into the world of cats and find out if cats genuinely like to eat vegetables and, if so, which types are your safest bet.
What Are Some Safe Vegetables for Cats?
Broccoli sitting on a counter near carrots. Source: Reinaldo Unsplash
Broccoli
This one has a lengthy history of being unpopular with humans, but do cats like broccoli? The jury is still out. However, it is completely safe for cats to eat broccoli in small quantities. Always wash any vegetables before offering them to your cat, even if they are organic. Broccoli contains many great vitamins to help keep your cat or dog’s digestive tract healthy. The crowns of the broccoli are a favorite among cats because of the small pieces that can be easily ripped off the plant.
Lettuce
Lettuce is made mainly of water and can be a nice hydrating treat for your cat. Choose organic and wash all the bacteria off to make it a safe addition to your cat’s diet. Cats love the crunch of iceberg lettuce more so than some other types. There is no wrong type of lettuce to offer your furry kid. Though it doesn’t contain much nutritional value besides minerals, it can still be a fun treat for your cat. It can be beneficial with older cats who do not drink enough water.
Spinach
Spinach made Popeye stronger because it was packed with B vitamins, magnesium, and fiber. It may not serve the same purpose for your cat, but it is mostly not harmful. Cats with kidney or bladder issues should only consume minimal amounts since spinach contains high oxalate, which can lead to the creation of painful bladder stones. However, most cats do not have this issue and can eat spinach, cooked or fresh, as a treat. Be sure to wash thoroughly and check that no recalls have been listed.
Corn
It can be hilarious to watch your cat eat corn on the cob. Make sure it is plain or close to it. Though they love butter, it sometimes contains dairy or other harmful ingredients and can upset your cat’s stomach. Plus, they don’t need all the extra saturated fat. Cats love corn on the cob or in a dish. Serve it as a special treat or a snack. Corn has very little nutritional value but does contain a fair amount of water, which can be helpful with some cats. Also, many cat foods contain corn.
Cucumbers
Many cats love crunching up fresh cucumber as a refreshing, water-filled treat. It isn’t bad for them in any way, either. Cucumber contains phosphorus and magnesium and loads of moisture for those kitties who don’t like to drink water. Next time you are making a salad, wash and dice up a few small pieces of cucumber to offer to your cat. Chances are, they’ll love it.
Which Vegetables are Unsafe for Cats?
Garlic
This one is a big NO. Even garlic powder, garlic salt, and ingredients containing trace amounts of garlic can harm your cat. It can kill cats, and most people are skeptical of the poisoning. Does this mean cats are vampires or vampurrs? Garlic contains a compound called sodium n-propyl thiosulfate, which, in short, damages your buddy’s red blood cells. This is especially dangerous in cats with blood issues or anemia. This includes cats with fleas. Red blood cells carry oxygen to your cat’s heart, lungs, and other organs. In severe anemia, cats have difficulty breathing and tend not to eat. Garlic is also toxic to your pup, so keep garlic-containing foods far from their curious reach.
Potatoes
This one is a bit complicated since potatoes can and likely will kill your cat if eaten raw. This is because they contain Solanine, which is highly toxic to almost everyone. Solanine is found in the green parts of unripened potatoes. Potatoes are also in the same family as nightshade, which is poisonous.
If the potatoes are cooked and do not contain salt, spices, or milk, they are safe to offer your cat in small quantities. Mashed potatoes with milk, salt, and butter added can upset your little lactose-intolerant friend’s tummy.
Sweet Potatoes
This is a nutritious and widely accepted type of potato by pets, including cats. Sweet potatoes do not contain Solanine, even if they are raw and not fully ripened. Most pets love sweet potatoes as a special treat. Many high-end cat and dog food products contain sweet potatoes as an ingredient.
Onions
No, onions are never okay to feed to your cat. They are in the plant family alliums, which are extremely toxic to cats. Garlic, chives, and leeks are also part of the alliums family and are harmful, as was previously discussed. All damage the cat’s red blood cells and can cause severe anemia.
So, What’s the Verdict on Cat-Safe Vegetables?
As you now know, some veggies are perfectly safe to offer your cat, but plenty are toxic. Always check with your vet before providing anything new to your cat. They are your best bet at knowing which vegetables are dangerous. Also, not every cat will be over-the-top about sweet potatoes or veggies. Like humans, everyone has a slightly different palate.
This list does not include every vegetable, so it’s essential to research vegetables your cat can have before approaching your vet for advice. Your cat might start looking forward to corn-on-the-cob night. Be sure to read our other articles on what cats can eat.
