There’s no way to know what your cat eats behind your back. I can tell you with almost one hundred percent certainty that my cat has tried everything in my household at least once. 

To give you a little bit of background, my cat’s name is Salem. He’s a funny little thing and his curiosity is endearing – most of the time. 

But what happens when he starts to sniff around the house and ends up eating whatever his little brain thinks to be edible? Well, that’s when I start to lose my mind. 

You know how much you love your little fur ball. You don’t want him to get sick because of his inquisitive outbursts. So can your cat eat those big and colorful peppers? 

Good thing is that vets and many other cat lovers are here to help you out and stop your panic attack. Quit fretting! We’ll hold your paws through this. 

Can cats eat bell peppers?

Before you go completely bonkers, IT’S OKAY! Bell peppers are safe for your cat to eat. 

Just like with many other veggies, your cat can eat them in small amounts. There’s nothing toxic within the bell pepper that could create an imbalance in your cat’s tummy and lead him to the kittie-hospital (or kittie-heaven).

Bell peppers don’t carry any real risk of toxicity for cats or dogs. However, you must know that the tummy of a cat isn’t created to consume large amounts of vegetables or plant foods in general. 

Sure, you can use them as a treat from time to time, but not as the main portion of a meal. In other words, don’t serve them an entire bowl of peppers! 

Even if your cat seems to enjoy them, it could lead to health problems if you’re not careful with the way you portion these delicacies. 

Can cats eat yellow bell peppers? 

As you know, there are different types of bell peppers and you could be wondering if your cat can eat a specific type. Your mind is still ringing alarm bells that it could be hazardous for your cat. 

That’s why it’s better to be safe and go through all the colors to put your mind at ease. 

As with any other vegetable, yellow bell peppers should be consumed in moderation. However, this one, in particular, is much safer for your kitty to eat. 

Yellow bell pepper contains a smaller amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene than the other types. So there’s no need for you to panic if he ate it, because he probably didn’t eat a full basket of these. 

The yellow bell pepper is in the middle of the ripening stage. This means that it’s more sour than red peppers. 

It would be wise to be careful when you keep these around the house, but Salem sneaks around to eat them quite often, and as long as I don’t let him eat them as his main meal of the day, he’s completely fine with that. 

Can cats eat red bell peppers? 

For some reason, many cats have a preference for red bell peppers. It wouldn’t surprise me that you’re wondering if your cat can eat bell peppers because he has a penchant for these red veggies. 

Your cute friend would rather munch on these than the yellow ones because they are riper and juicer. They’re more flavorful and also have a higher nutritional value. 

These peppers possess a higher amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene. This shouldn’t create a problem in your cat’s inner ecosystem, but it could also be hazardous if he eats too much of it. 

Give it to your cat in moderation and he should be fine. But if you, at any point, realize that he’s not acting as he usually does, pay a visit to your vet. It couldn’t hurt. 

Can cats eat green bell peppers? 

Green peppers are at the first stage of ripening. 

Your furry friend doesn’t need any secondary vitamins, so the fact that this one doesn’t contain as much vitamin C as the previously mentioned peppers shouldn’t bother you that much. 

You don’t need to keep yourself from giving these to your cat. Just restrain yourself from giving an entire handful to your cat and he should be fine. 

If he’s a wild little thing, then he’ll just jump on your table and take what he wants from your plate anyway. Before you know it, he’ll be off munching on his little “prey.” 

He’ll ignore your pleas because he’s eating like a king at that point. Don’t take that small pleasure away from him, just make sure that he doesn’t eat a whole lot of it. 

Do cats even like bell peppers?

You see your cat munching on his little treats, but you’re not really sure if you should bring vegetables into the game. Well, I can tell you with certainty that bell peppers aren’t the most appetizing thing to a cat. 

Cats love to eat things that are rich in flavors. If it’s sweet and crunchy, your cat will enjoy it like his life depended on it. 

We can’t really say that bell peppers fall under that category, but your cat could still enjoy his little treat because it’s a surprise for his taste buds. It’s something different and that’ll be interesting to him. 

He may run from it the very moment he sniffs it or he could devour it. I guess it all depends on the cat. You know that the little monsters have mood swings that you can’t really foresee! 

Are there any health benefits to feeding your cat peppers? 

As a cat person, you’ll know all too well that cats don’t listen to you when you tell them to stop eating something. They’re enjoying themselves way too much. 

Since we’ve established that your cat can eat bell peppers, you should also know that there are certain benefits to them. If you give your cat peppers in a moderate amount then you should understand why they’re so good for him. 

1. Can help with indigestion

Given the high fiber content in this vegetable, it helps with indigestion. It can help humans just as well as cats. 

If your cat is facing troubles like incontinence or constipation, a bit of pepper in his diet can put your mind at ease. 

This fact could easily convince you to give your furbaby a large amount, but don’t do that. Don’t fall for the temptation. Remember that cats are carnivores – their digestive systems are not meant to handle large quantities of plant matter. 

2. Reduces the risk of cancer

The human body can become sick and a playground for different types of cancer when the lifestyle and diet aren’t good enough to keep it healthy. The same thing goes for cats, believe it or not. 

We’ve established that cats can eat bell peppers, and that in moderate amounts it can even be beneficial. But here’s a rather interesting find: Peppers can reduce the risk of feline cancer. 

Bell peppers are filled with antioxidants like luteolin, zeaxanthin, quercetin, and capsanthin. They’re anti-inflammatory, which helps your cat fight off different types of infections, as well as prevents cancerous cells from developing. 

If that isn’t a huge health benefit to those colorful veggies, then I don’t know what is. You’re probably tired of hearing this, but I’ll continue to remind you that a small amount of peppers is perfectly acceptable.

Don’t overdo it and your cat will reap all of these benefits. 

3. It’s a low-calorie snack

Overfeeding your cat is just as much of an issue as underfeeding. The fact that many people are ready to feed their floof whenever he’s hungry is quite concerning. 

That’s why it’s such a great thing to bring veggies into his diet sooner rather than later. With only 20 calories per 100g, it’s a low-calorie snack that your cat will enjoy. 

It’s something different that’ll keep him interested as well as well-fed. Sometimes, it’s better to give him this than an actual snack made for cats as they’re filled with calories that’ll only promote obesity. 

I know that he’s cute when he looks like a walking pillow because of how chubby he’s getting, but it could lead him to kittie-heaven soon if you’re not careful. 

4. Boosts hydration

Giving plain water to your cat may become difficult at one point. And if so, your cat will experience dehydration because of his change in appetite. It can be caused by various health issues, but that’s for your vet to figure out. 

A way to get more fluids into your cat’s system is to give him bell peppers. 93.9% of bell pepper is water, so should your kitty start to avoid his water bowl, this would be a great supplement. 

You just need to understand that this is merely a temporary solution. Your cat has to take in proper water at one point or another. Bell peppers are just there to help you for the short term.

5. Prevents anemia

Anemia in cats can be just as dangerous as it is in humans. If you suspect that your cat may have anemia, you can examine him by yourself before you make the final decision to take him to the vet. 

Pale gums, a lack of appetite, and intolerance to exercise are all signs of feline anemia. You’d be surprised to hear that bell peppers can actually help you when it comes to curing this problem. 

They’re filled with vitamin C and iron (especially red bell peppers). Vitamin C is great for boosting the immune system and it helps absorb the iron from the vegetable. 

You can bring this into his diet right away, simply to prevent anemia from becoming an issue in your little friend. My advice for you is to serve it together with other foods that are filled with vitamin C.

6. Reduces eyesight issues 

If your cat is a little bit older, you may want to consider introducing a small dose of bell peppers into his diet. Can older cats even eat bell peppers, you ask? 

He sure can. In this case, age isn’t a factor, portion control is. 

Bell peppers are filled with essential carotenoids such as zeaxanthin and lutein. They help stop vascular degeneration. With those properties, it can help your cat see better or even help prevent your cat from becoming visually impaired as he gets older. 

Do cats eat plants in the wild? 

There are many studies done on cats and what they eat in the wild. When thinking about whether cats can eat bell peppers, think about the fact that fruits and veggies are very common in the wild (but never abundant). 

Cats eat them in the wild, too, but never in a huge amount. They’re carnivores who love to hunt down their prey. 

Studies show that too much plant matter can cause indigestion because it sticks to a feline’s digestive tract. The nutritional value of plants is also quite small for cats and they don’t care for a huge amount of them. 

In nature, the ingestion of plants is commonly accidental. If they do go for a plant, it’s because of the need for something different regarding their food intake. But you can trust a cat’s instinct to keep itself safe. 

There is a difference between wild cats and domestic ones. I don’t know about you, but Salem wouldn’t survive a day in the wilderness – although he likes to act as if he’s the world’s toughest predator! 

Domestic cats tend to imitate the behavior of their owners. That’s why Salem goes for bell peppers – because he sees me eating them. I had to learn that one the hard way.

Read more: Can Cats Eat Chickpeas? Are They Dangerous Or Healthy?

Is it a nutritional craving? 

Can cats eat bell peppers? It’s a valid question, as there’s a genuine fear that comes with pet diets. You continue to wonder if your cat is going to disappear from your life because of a little misstep. 

You’d blame yourself for the rest of your life. 

However, it could simply be that he’s malnourished. This could mean that his body doesn’t absorb vitamins and nutrition in a normal manner. So he’ll go out of his way to compensate for the lack of nutrition in his system. 

A sign of this is also when your cat starts to go after non-edible things. 

You heard that kids eat sand when they’re lacking some minerals. Cats aren’t that different from children. He doesn’t care that he could have issues because of it, he just knows that he’s craving it. 

Nonetheless, the issue is resolved the moment you understand that he can eat veggies in smaller amounts. Your kitty cat will be fine, just keep a watchful eye on him and the things he eats. 

If you do catch him eating something he shouldn’t, it’s always a great thing to err on the side of caution and call your veterinarian. Until then, you and your cat will most likely be more than fine. 

It sure puts my mind at ease because I can see Salem sniffing around as we speak. He’s a troublemaker, but I love him to bits. 

At least I know that he can eat his bell peppers now. 

Read more: Can Cats Eat Okra? Are These Veggies Safe?

“That’s coming from the kitchen.”, you think to yourself as you slowly get up to check what’s happening. “Mrs. McFluffer, are you there?”, you summon your four-legged friend thinking she’s gotten herself in trouble again. “Come here kitty, kitty!”

You’re slowly approaching your kitchen door when you see a shadow run across the hallway. You gasp, hoping that’s your imagination playing tricks on you. You can sense an odd fragrance coming from the kitchen. But, you can’t put your finger on what that could be.

“Wait, could that be garlic?”, you ask yourself when that terrifying shadow runs across the hallway again. “Oh no, that’s a vampire!”, everything becomes apparent as you scream in terror and turn on every single light you can get your hands on.

“It’s a… It’s a…”, you try to get the words out but can’t. “Wait, it’s just a cat! Oh, Mrs. McFluffer, what are you doing with that clove of garlic?!” You can feel the burden lifting off of your shoulders as a question settles inside of your head. “Can cats even eat garlic?”

Worry not; your haste Google search brought you to the right place. Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t recommend feeding garlic to your cat. Actually, garlic’s one of the most poisonous veggies your cat can munch on.

So, here’s everything you need to know before your mischievous monster decides to pull off another one of those stunts on you.

Can cats eat garlic?

Feel free to repeat these words out loud a couple of times for everyone to hear. “Cats can’t eat garlic under any circumstances!”. There’s pretty much no reason why your cat would even want to munch on this vegetable.

Not only do cats find that familiar garlic aroma absolutely REPULSIVE. But, they don’t even need this veggie (or other veggies) in their diet. Actually, cats are carnivores which means they pretty much only need meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients to survive and thrive.

They don’t need fruits, veggies, and whole grains the same way humans do (hint – humans are omnivores). They don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat on a regular.

Cats are VERY different from me and you. That’s an important thing to remember when you’re considering switching up your cat’s diet or doing anything you haven’t gotten approved by your vet. Trust me; you don’t want the garlic to become the thing that proves to you how fragile your cat’s health could be.

So, what’s so dangerous about garlic? Garlic’s a member of the Allium family alongside onions, shallots, chives, and leeks. Each member of the Allium family contains compounds known as disulfides and thiosulphates which are what make them poisonous to cats.

These compounds can damage and break down your cat’s red blood cells causing conditions known as hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia, and methemoglobinemia. And don’t even get me started on the fact that eating any of the members of the Allium family can lead to poisoning.

What happens when cats eat garlic?

Oh boy, you don’t even want to know what happens when your curious creature gets her paws on the garlic! But, on the off chance that you’re having a hard time understanding this whole “cats can’t eat garlic” thing, you might want to take a closer look at what to expect.

First things first, garlic’s poisonous to cats regardless of the amount they consume. Their reaction depends on a couple of factors – age, weight, breed, and even the type of garlic they’ve munched on (fresh, dried, powered…).

More times than not, a cat that’s eaten a little bit of garlic might experience symptoms of garlic toxicity (toxicosis or poisoning). These symptoms are typically gastrointestinal and they include anything ranging from stomachache and discomfort to nausea, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.

On the other hand, more severe symptoms might allude to anemia. Such symptoms include weakness, lethargy, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, paleness of the gums, and increased heart rate and respiratory rate.

Every cat’s different which means every cat reacts differently to these symptoms. Some breeds have been proven more sensitive to symptoms of garlic poisoning. These include Siamese, Burmese, Singapura, Turkish Angora, Oriental Shorthair, and Japanese Bobtail.

How much garlic can cats eat?

Garlic’s poisonous to cats regardless of the amount or the type, but… There’s always a but when we’re talking about different foods cats can or can’t eat. There’s a difference between nibbling on a fresh clove of garlic and munching on bread that contains a minuscule amount of garlic powder.

“How much garlic’s too much garlic!?” Here’s the thing. Some people claim that even the smallest amount, (one clove or 197 milligrams of garlic powder) can lead to garlic poisoning.

Other people claim that anything over 5 grams per kilogram of a cat’s body weight can cause symptoms of garlic poisoning to appear. And we can’t forget about the people that claim that cats with current health problems can’t deal with an even smaller amount of garlic.

Your cat’s better off munching on something else. Not only that, but she’s better off not coming close to a single clove of garlic for the rest of her life. Regardless of the amount that she can potentially digest without repercussions, you should stay on the safe side of things.

What to do when your cat eats garlic?

Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY! We don’t know how else to illustrate the urgency of the situation. But, your cat can’t eat garlic under any circumstances. And when she does, there’s a pawsibility that she won’t experience symptoms of poisoning FOR DAYS.

The most responsible thing you can do for yourself and your cat seems to be to keep an eye out for her at any moment. For example, when she’s roaming around the apartment not knowing what to do with herself. Or when she’s making weird noises while playing with something she shouldn’t play with.

Or even when she’s clearly plotting to snatch the leftover garlic bread you baked because you were having some friends over for dinner. You’re better off avoiding the situation completely than dealing with the aftermath.

But, when you do have your suspicions that she might have gotten into your secret garlic stash, contact your vet immediately. Don’t wait for the first symptoms to appear. Make sure you schedule a visit or take her to the emergency animal center. They should be able to provide her with the support and care that she needs.

What’s the deal with garlic and fleas?

Okay, so the answer to the question “can cats eat garlic” is ‘No,’ but who’s to say they can’t use garlic to get rid of fleas? These pesky passengers have been messing with your cat’s head for A WHILE. And, you’ve stumbled upon a couple of articles claiming that the two of you can work things out with a single clove of garlic.

But, now you’re learning that cats can’t eat garlic and you’re confused. “Can they, can’t they!? What’s the scoop on this one?” Those articles weren’t lying when they made those claims. Garlic can actually be used as a flea repellent, only not by your cat.

The risks outweigh the benefits. Some of that garlic could rub off of your cat’s hair or somehow end up around her mouth out of her snout. Every single one of those scenarios could send your cat to the emergency animal center which means you’re better off using an alternative flea repellent.

Give catnip, coconut oil, or even olive oil a try, and let us know how it goes! Other than that, make sure your four-legged friend steers clear of garlic and the Alliums. What a dangerous family they are!

She’s gotten chunkier with time, and you’re trying to teach her to eat healthier. She hates that (obviously and unequivocally!) And, every now and then she tries to meow and purr her way into your Sunday barbecue. “Not this time, Mrs. McFluffer!”, you say as you’re scrolling down your TikTok.

“Oh, how the tables have turned! Seems to me like everyone’s raging about grilled cabbage being the better (and healthier) version of steak! Mrs.McFluffer, we’re giving this recipe a try for the sake of your bikini body!”. You scream at your feline friend as you’re preparing your barbecue setup.

But, one thing’s been bothering you the entire time you were looking through those TikToks. Sure, cabbage seems much healthier than a greasy steak that’s been slathered with butter and seasonings (umm, hello, that sounds yummy!) But, can cats eat cabbage?

Our friends over at the APSCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) are pretty sure that cabbage doesn’t possess anything that could cause harm to your cat’s health. As long as you stick with a couple of tips and tricks, of course.

Worry not; we’ve gathered everything you need to know about cabbages, cats, and their weird relationship before you draw any of your own conclusions. Here goes nothing – what’s the deal with cats and cabbages?

How do cats feel about cabbage?

Cats can eat cabbage. This seems like great news for someone who’s always snooping around the kitchen. And we know that someone is looking to munch on pretty much anything.

We can’t help but notice your mischievous monster’s been giving your dirty looks ever since you mentioned grilled cabbage and Sunday barbecue.

But, cats are carnivores. On the off chance that you’ve been living under a rock ever since you were born, that means that they need a bunch of meat, animal protein, and other animal nutrients in their diets to survive. They don’t need fruits and veggies the same way you do because they’re not omnivores.

They don’t even possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods you eat every single day. For example, a single sip of milk could send your boisterous beast to the emergency animal center because she’s unable to process lactose.

Or, a minuscule cupcake bite could leave her suffering inside of her litter box for the rest of the day. Her digestive system can’t deal with carbohydrates. She’s pretty much condemned to spend the rest of her life feeding off of a Keto diet ONLY.

Having that in mind, your feline friend shouldn’t be interested in something as bland as cabbage. She’s clearly better off munching on her carefully crafted cat food and cat treats. Even throwing a barbecue of her own (with some paw-licking ribs) every now and then.

But, cats are curious creatures. Haven’t you ever heard the one that goes something along the lines of “curiosity killed the cat?” We’re hoping that doesn’t happen to your munchkin. But, she can be pretty curious when she catches a glimpse of something you’re eating. Even when it’s JUST cabbage.

Can cats eat cabbage?

You and your furry friend are about to head off to the nearest Trader Joe’s to purchase an entire head of cabbage. But, you’re having some second thoughts. Can cats eat cabbage without the repercussions? Can they reap any of the benefits cabbage brings to the table? Are cabbages even vegetables?

Worry not; we have the answers you’re looking for. Cabbage actually belongs to the same family as cauliflower and broccoli (hence the VERY similar flavor and aroma). Cabbage typically gets described as a crunchy, cruciferous vegetable even though some humans want to place it in the same basket as spinach and lettuce.

And, we can’t forget about the fact that cabbage became one of the most versatile veggies around the world. Humans prepare cabbage with sweet, savory, and spicy dishes because there are SO MANY different types of cabbage (at least 400 varieties?!)

Green cabbage, Red cabbage, Chinese cabbage, Savoy cabbage, Bok choy… We could go on and on because every single cabbage has a story (and flavor) on its own. And, every type of cabbage contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber which seem like a great addition to your cat’s diet.

Cats can eat cabbage so you can have a little “phew” moment and breathe out! Not only does cabbage NOT contain anything that could harm your cat’s health. But, this wondrous veggie can also boost your cat’s immune system and maintain the proper function of other systems.

What’s poppin’ about feeding cabbage to your cat?

Who’s surprised that these crunchy, cruciferous vegetables possess a bunch of nutritional and health benefits!? Cats can sense these things (at least that’s what we’re thinking). So, we’re not surprised that your cat’s been eyeing that Green Goddess (TikTok fans, hi!) salad of yours for a minute.

Who wouldn’t want to boost their immune system, maintain the health of their nervous system, and ensure the proper function of their digestive system? “You know I’ll be the first in line!”. You can almost hear your furry friend meowing and purring your ears off to let her have a taste. Now’s your chance!

1. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

That’s right – cabbage seems to be filled to the brim with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The green goblin of the vegetables can provide you (and your four-legged friend) with vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin B, folate, magnesium, manganese, copper, and calcium.

That’s quite a combination, don’t you think? For example, vitamin K helps your cat synthesize the essential proteins within her body. On the other hand, vitamin C gives a boost to her immune system and helps the production of collagen (a very important thingamabob, trust me on that one).

Vitamin B, don’t even get me started on vitamin B! This miracle maker helps your feline friend with pretty much everything – maintains the health of her immune system, nervous system, and digestive system, ensures healthy cognitive function, and makes sure she’s got THE BEST skin and hair in the feline world.

And, we can’t afford to forget about the minerals because each of them has an essential role. From the production of oxygen and elevation of oxygen levels to the production of energy and the maintenance of teeth and bones – these little helpers do that, and more. Cabbage for the president, don’t you agree?

2. Fiber

Cabbage seems to be rich in fiber, too! “What does fiber have to do with anything?!”, you might be thinking to yourself and you wouldn’t be the only one. Most pet parents don’t think fiber plays a major role when we’re talking about maintaining their cat’s health.

But, fiber can actually be even more essential for your cat than the other nutrients she can get from cabbage. Cats NEED fiber because they don’t typically get that from their natural diet (meat, meat, and a little bit more meat).

Wild cats typically get their fiber from the insides of their prey’s stomachs or form an occasional plant they munch on while they eon the stakeout. Your not-so-wild cat gets her fiber from cat food and cat treats that contain a few veggies – carrots, peas, and stuff like that.

Fiber provides bulk to help food move through the digestive tract (because fiber doesn’t actually get digested). That helps maintain the health and the proper function of your cat’s digestive tract, and that also helps deal with digestive problems such as constipation and diarrhea.

“A little bit of cabbage a day keeps the doctor away!”, or something like that. Anyway, your precious purrincess can munch on that Green Goddess salad as long as she doesn’t go overboard (and as long as you haven’t put TOO MUCH dressing).

What’s the problem with feeding cabbage to your cat?

Cats can eat cabbage, but… There always seems to be a but when we’re talking about feeding anything to your cat that shouldn’t be a natural part of her diet. Cats don’t really possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods they shouldn’t eat on a regular. Cabbage seems to be one of those foods.

These crunchy, cruciferous vegetables do bring a lot to the table. But, they can be pretty rough for your feline friend to digest. Bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea – you can never be sure which one of these symptoms to expect after she munches on a little bit of cabbage.

And don’t even get me started on those gasses! Trust me, you don’t want your feline to fart when you’re someone over or when you’re trying to have a romantic dinner with your significant other. She’s going to blame everything on you without batting an eye. Take a look at what other trickeries and ploys to expect.

1. Low nutritional value

“Wait, what? Didn’t we JUST talk about how cabbage possesses a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants?!”. That’s right, cabbage does bring a lot of nutritional and health benefits to the table, for both humans and their curious counterparts. But, these benefits aren’t always what cats need

Cats are carnivores and they need meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets. When they don’t get enough of those things they become weak, depressed, and contract an array of different diseases. Consuming cabbage every now and then shouldn’t cause such problems, but…

Cats are pretty unpredictable. Your feline friend might become obsessed with cabbage for this reason or the other and start refusing cat food and cat treats. Feeding off of a cabbage-only diet can (and will) cause problems in the long run because she won’t be getting the nutrients that she needs.

2. Herbicides and pesticides

And, of course, we can’t forget about the fact that most humans don’t produce their own cabbage. The cabbage that you get from your local farmer’s market or the nearest Trader Joe’s can contain a bunch of herbicides and pesticides that are proven to be harmful (and even poisonous) to cats.

Goes without saying that consuming these things (accidentally) over a longer period can be detrimental to your cat’s health. Depending on the type of herbicides and pesticides your little munching can experience weakness, twitching, tremors, seizures, and even chronic anorexia.

So, when you’re planning on sharing a tiny bit of cabbage salad with your feline, make sure you wash the cabbage PROPERLY. Don’t shy away from soaking the cabbage – you just need a mixture of water, vinegar, and baking soda. Rinse out the cabbage under cold water afterward, and you’re good to go.

Can cats eat cooked cabbage?

Cats can eat cooked cabbage – as long as you consider a couple of things.

Cooked cabbage does seem to be the best way to go about feeding the delicious vegetable to your four-legged friend. But, that does depend on the way you cook the cabbage. Cabbage that’s been smothered with oil, salt, and seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and chili’s a HUGE red flag.

Your little feline friend can’t have any of those things because they could send her to the emergency animal center. Trust me, you don’t want your feline munching on anything that’s been anywhere near garlic powder or onion powder (toxicity ALERT!).

So, when you’re thinking of sharing a thing of cabbage stew with your favorite feline, make sure you cook everything without the added seasonings. You might think “Wow, that sounds bland!”. But, there are plenty of herbs and seasonings that are safe for your cat (basil, cilantro, dill…).

Can cats eat raw cabbage?

Cats can eat raw cabbage, but that’s not to say that they should. Raw cabbage comes with far more risks than cooked one, and trust me; you’re better off staying on the safe side.

First things first, raw cabbage can become quite a choking hazard. This crunchy, cruciferous vegetable seems to be pretty difficult to chew for your four-legged friend. Especially when you don’t cut the cabbage into small, paw-sized bites.

On the other hand, raw cabbage contains something known as thiocyanate. When your furry friend consumes thiocyanate for a longer period, she starts to lose her ability to regulate her own thyroid. Which is a pretty essential skill to have). And, that can end with hypothyroidism.

Cooking the cabbage destroys A LOT of thiocyanates, which makes cooked cabbage a much safer option for your feline friend. Cats can eat cabbage, but you’re the one who’s responsible for making the cabbage cat-friendly (and delicious, of course!).

“Those TikToks are going to be the death of me! Who told me making such a delicious dish and leaving it on the kitchen counter was a good idea!?”. You’re screaming as she’s already gobbled down the last one of those cucumbers.

Scream no more, she’s already out of the kitchen looking for other nooks and crannies to use as her troublemaking spot. And, before you even know that, you’re left to ponder how on Earth she was able to do ALL THAT with a swift jump and a dextrous movement of the paw.

“Seriously, can cats even eat cucumbers?” Worry not, our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) haven’t put cucumbers on their naughty list. And they know what’s up, especially when we’re talking about what cats can and cannot munch on.

Cats can eat cucumbers – but, could things really be as simple as that when we’re talking about your boisterous beast? They couldn’t and they’re not. But, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about the do’s and don’ts of feeding these crunchy veggies to your cat.

What’s the deal with cats and cucumbers?

When you’re thinking about the best, cream of the crop feast for your feline friend, you’re not necessarily thinking of the Green Goddess salad or a bunch of cucumbers (regardless of what TikTok might make you think). You’re probably thinking of a paw-licking steak or mouth-watering rib chops, right?

That’s because cats are carnivores – they need a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive and thrive. They don’t need fruits, veggies, and whole grains in their diets the same way humans do (because humans are omnivores).

And, they don’t even possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat regularly. For example, they might have a tough time digesting milk and milk products because they can’t tolerate lactose.

Or, they might end up at the emergency animal center after eating a bunch of donuts because they can’t really digest that many carbohydrates. But, what’s the deal with cucumbers?

Cats can eat cucumbers because they don’t possess anything that might cause harm to them. Quite on the contrary, cucumbers are one of the few veggies that can make for a delicious treat! That is, on the off chance that your cat wants to nibble on them when she’s looking for a pick-me-up.

But, but, but… There’s always a but when we’re talking about your cat munching on something she isn’t supposed to munch on. Cucumbers might make for a tasty treat but they aren’t (and shouldn’t be) a natural part of your cat’s diet. Cucumbers are cute, but they’re not THAT cute.

Can cats eat cucumbers?

Cats can eat cucumbers – but, the real question’s whether cats want to eat cucumbers. On the off chance that you’ve been living under a rock for the last couple of years, you might have missed those TikToks with cats getting TERRIFIED the moment that they notice a cucumber carefully placed next to them.

These videos have started quite a trend among TikTok users, many of them rushing to scare their precious pets with cucumbers to get their five minutes of fame. But, are cats actually scared of cucumbers? Or are these TikTokers forgetting about the whole “I’m scared because I had no idea there was a cucumber next to me” thing?

Cat behaviorists argue that there’s no reason to believe cats sense a deep-seated hatred toward these crunchy veggies. Your cat’s only reacting to the fact that you’re purposely trying to get a reaction out of her. Chances are, she’d be equally scared if you placed a pumpkin next to her while she wasn’t looking.

Cats aren’t scared of cucumbers. But, they might not be the biggest fans of this particular vegetable (not that they’re fans of vegetables AT ALL). You see, your cat has a superior sense of smell, and she uses that sense of smell to protect herself from anything that seems dangerous or threatening.

Cucumbers are pretty safe – but, they might have a scent that triggers your cat’s “fight or flight” response. Certain cucumbers might even look like snakes and make your cat run for her life because that’s what her gut feeling’s telling her to do. Cucumbers aren’t the ones to blame for such weird reactions you’ve seen on TikTok.

Cats have the same response to pretty much everything, and they don’t really want to munch on something that’s knocked them out of their shoes.

What’s good about feeding cucumbers to your cat?

But, the moment that your four-legged friend does decide that she’s ready to give cucumbers a chance, you might wonder whether you’ve made the right decision. “Are cucumbers even good for my cat? Can my cat reap ANY of the benefits – on the off chance that there are any, to begin with?”

Worry not, cucumbers are home to some of the most delicious and nutritious vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re your munchkin’s friends because they can boost her immune system, maintain the health of her digestive system, and ensure the proper function of her nervous system. Check them out!

1. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

We’re talking about vitamin K, vitamin B, vitamin C, copper, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium! Trust me, you want to learn about the incredible health benefits your cat can get from these vitamins and minerals. Because when you do, you won’t even have to wonder whether cats can eat cucumbers!

Starting from the top, vitamin K seems to be responsible for the synthesis of protein that plays a huge role in your cat’s metabolism. Vitamin B is one of those nutrients that do everything – ensure the health of your cat’s immune system, nervous system, AND digestive tract.

Vitamin C plays the role of one of the most important antioxidants for your cat, can boost your cat’s immune system, and help the production of collagen. And don’t even get me started on those minerals. From the formation of enzymes and utilization of nutrients to the transportation of oxygen, they have everything covered.

2. Fiber

Cats can eat cucumbers because they’re beaming with nutrients, but what about fiber?! We can’t forget about the amazing miracle-maker that can transform your cat’s digestive health with only a couple of nibbles a day. That’s right, cucumbers are very, very rich in fiber.

Fiber provides bulk to help food move through your cat’s digestive tract. Not only that, but fiber can help her whenever she’s dealing with digestive problems.

This goes for constipation, diarrhea, obesity, and even diabetes. Not to mention the fact that fiber makes sure she doesn’t spend an eternity in her litter box.

Munching on cucumbers every now and then doesn’t sounds that bad. But, that’s not to say that you shouldn’t consult with your vet before running off to the nearest farmer’s market to purchase a bunch of cucumbers for your cat.

What’s bad about feeding cucumbers to your cat?

Before we go any further, repeat after me: “Cats can eat cucumbers!” We don’t want you to think that your cat can end up at the emergency animal center because of a single slice of a cucumber she snatched right off of your eyes. We’re simply letting you know there are a couple of things to keep an eye out for.

1. Lack of nutritional value

“Cucumbers are beaming with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber! What do your mean they’re lacking nutritional value?!” That’s right, the nutrients that cucumbers possess aren’t necessarily the same nutrients your cat desperately needs to be happy and healthy.

She can certainly achieve great things with an occasional dose of vitamin C, vitamin B, or copper. But, she can’t achieve them without the mandatory meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients. She can’t munch on cucumbers every day without supplementing them with what she really needs.

She might even develop problems with dry and brittle hair, lose the color of her hair, or lose her hair entirely as a result of the lack of nutritional value. Whatever she’s munching on every day needs to have appropriate amounts of fat and protein for her to be able to maintain optimal health.

Cucumbers make for a delicious, crunchy treat, but not for a fulfilling meal.

2. Pesticides and herbicides

Where have you been getting your cucumbers from!? Feeding cucumbers to your cat can be quite a laborious task. You have to make sure they’re fresh, clean, and safe. Some cucumbers might contain traces of pesticides and herbicides that can cause harm to your cat’s health.

You might have guessed that yourself. But, pesticides and herbicides aren’t necessarily safe for consumption because they’re not supposed to be consumed. And, a lot of humans that produce vegetables spray them on top to ensure longevity and safety (of their veggies, not your cat).

Some pesticides and herbicides are extremely poisonous to cats and can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, wheezing, difficulty breathing, rashes and hives, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. None of that sounds fun, so make sure you wash and peel your cucumbers before feeding them to your cat.

How to feed cucumbers to your cat safely?

Now you’re freaking out because “How can you tell me to feed cucumbers to my cat when there’s a chance she might get poisoned by the pesticide and herbicides?!“. Worry not, there are a lot of ways in which you can ensure your cat’s safety when you’re thinking of giving her a couple of cucumber slices.

Make sure to purchase your produce from a reliable source. We’re aware that this can be a task on its own. But, buying vegetables from someone who doesn’t use pesticides and herbicides cuts down the work you need to do. Your curious creature deserves the effort, doesn’t she?

Wash your produce thoroughly. According to TikTok, washing your veggies with water, vinegar, and bicarbonate soda gets rid of pretty much anything you don’t want to munch on. And, there’s no reason to believe that the same wouldn’t work for your furry friend.

Peel your produce (or peel your cucumbers). Some produce doesn’t need peeling, but cucumbers can certainly benefit from shedding their skin. Sure, you might be able to digest whatever’s on there. But, your cat’s better off not having to nibble through a layer of pesticides and herbicides.

Cut your cucumbers and feed them to your (very hungry) cat. Cutting your cucumbers into paw-sized bites makes the entire experience a lot more personable. And, of course, cutting them helps your cat avoid choking on a rogue pice she wasn’t able to chew through. Voilà, you can feed your cat some cukes now!

Can cats eat other veggies?

Cats can eat other veggies, too! Maybe you’ve discovered your feline friend can’t stop munching on vegetables. Maybe you’ve decided to surprise her with something she’s never eaten before. Or maybe, you’ve even considered experimenting with different recipes for a homemade feast.

Either way, you should be happy to learn that there are PLENTY of veggies your cat can nibble on. Carrots, peas, and corn make for a mouth-watering rendition of a Fancy Feast. Broccoli, green beans, zucchini, lettuce, and spinach can make sure she lives out her green smoothie dreams.

And don’t even get me started on squash and pumpkin – Pumpkin Spice Lattes for cats? Yes, please!

But, but, but… Don’t forget to keep both of your eyes peeled on veggies your furry friend can’t eat. You don’t want to go to the nearest farmer’s market and purchase a bunch of onions, shallots, and garlic. And, trust me, you certainly don’t want to purchase green tomatoes and avocado.

In the end

Cats can eat cucumbers! Cucumbers make for a delicious pick-me-up when your cat’s feeling sluggish. But, they shouldn’t be a regular part of your cat’s diet because they lack the nutritional value that she needs. A cucumber slice here and there should be enough to keep her happy and healthy!

Suddenly, you’re noticing she’s sniffing around your garden looking at your tomatoes (waiting for them to ripen, maybe?). She’s giving them a little push with her paw, walking around them as if she’s waiting for them to move, and checking whether she can give them a little bite.

She’s CLEARLY bored with her regular cat food. But, you can‘t get over the fact that she’s interested in a vegetable? Your precious purrincess that doesn’t want to eat anything unless it’s made with chicken or beef? Your munchkin that gets diarrhea every time she nibbles on cheese?

How can you feed your cat tomatoes when she hasn’t even gotten over munching on human foods? Can cats even eat tomatoes? Can they eat every part of the tomato plant? What about veggies in general?

Actually, you might have saved your cat an emergency vet visit when you decided to hop online and look for some answers. According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can’t REALLY eat tomatoes.

Tomatoes (well, certain parts of the tomato) contain compounds that can cause harm to your cat’s health. So, you shouldn’t feed tomatoes to your cat unless you’re 100% sure you know what you’re doing (and you consulted with your vet).

What are tomatoes?

Have you been living under a rock for the entirety of your life? We‘re guessing your answer‘s “No.“ And, we‘re guessing you‘ve stumbled upon a tomato or two and been asked to share your opinion on the “are tomatoes fruits or vegetables?” debate.

Here’s the thing, tomatoes are both and you’re wrong to think otherwise. Tomatoes are fruits that are typically considered vegetables by nutritionists. Tomatoes are ripened flowers with seeds. But, they aren’t sweet and they don’t contain as much fructose as some other fruits.

That’s where the confusion comes from – tomatoes have the properties of both veggies and fruits and nobody’s sure whether they’re one or the other. But, cats don’t really care about labels as long as they don’t get in the way of them munching on whatever food’s in question.

Anyway, tomatoes (Solanum Lycopersicum, for those of you who are looking to be more technical) are pretty great. They come from the nightshade family that‘s native to South America but they grow pretty much everywhere in the world.

They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re great for boosting your immune system, maintaining the proper function of your nervous system, and ensuring the health of your digestive system. They have pretty much every system covered… For humans.

Our feline friends can’t reap the same benefits considering the harmful compounds we mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago. Commercial cat food doesn’t contain tomatoes for a reason.

Can cats eat tomatoes?

Our friends over at the ASPCA don’t recommend feeding tomatoes to your cat because of numerous reasons. Certain parts of the tomato plant contain compounds that can cause harm to your cat’s health. So, it’s better to avoid tomatoes altogether than to suffer the consequences.

And, we can‘t forget about the fact that tomatoes aren’t a natural part of your cat’s diet. Cats are carnivores which means they require meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive and thrive.

They don’t require fruits, veggies, and whole grains the same way humans do. They don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat regularly. Tomatoes are great, but they’re not ALWAYS great for your cat.

Ripe red tomatoes are perfectly safe for your four-legged friend, but unripe tomatoes aren‘t. Other parts of the tomato plant (root, stem, leaves) aren‘t safe, either. Sure, “sharing is caring”, but you shouldn’t share everything you eat with your furry friend before you consult with your vet.

Before the two of you head off to the nearest Trader Joe’s to get some organic, crème de la crème tomatoes, you might want to throw a glance a what to expect when you feed tomatoes to your feline friend.

What’s good about tomatoes?

For humans!? Everything! For cats?! Definitely not as much, but we can‘t say that ripe tomatoes don’t do their best at providing your four-legged friend with a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Starting with vitamins, a bite or two of tomato flesh can provide your feline friend with vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. These vitamins are a great aid when it comes to ensuring your cat’s health – vitamin A muscles, bones, and teeth, vitamin C for the immune system, and vitamin K for healthy blood.

Moving on to minerals, a nibble of tomato flesh can provide your furry friend with potassium, magnesium, manganese, and calcium. These minerals ensure the proper function of your cat’s heart, liver, and kidneys. And they maintain the health of your cat’s muscles, bones, and teeth.

Last but not least, we can‘t forget about antioxidants. Antioxidants are SUPER important because most (wild and not-so-wild) cats get their nutrients from their prey (which doesn’t necessarily have any antioxidants).

And, tomatoes just happen to be a great source of lycopene which can help your cat lower the risk of heart disease and cancer. Tomatoes are starting to seem too good to be true, which means it’s time to throw a glance at some of the tomatoes‘ dark sides.

What’s bad about tomatoes?

For cats? The list seems to be getting bigger and bigger as you dig deeper and deeper. Where do we even start – tomato allergies, tomato plant poisoning, tomatine, and solanine?! We’re starting to think you’re about to understand the “cats can’t eat tomatoes” rant from the beginning of the article.

To your cat’s (and everyone else’s) demise, tomatoes aren’t as gentle on your cat’s digestive system as we assumed. Feeding small quantities of the WRONG tomato (green tomato, we‘re looking at you!) can cause a bunch of digestive problems and other health problems to your precious pet.

And don‘t even get me started on feeding large amounts of the RIGHT tomato to your cat because that can also cause problems. When you’re planning on feeding ANY type of tomato to your cat you have to make sure you know what you’re doing.

But, here’s what to expect when you don’t.

1. Tomato allergy

Yes, your furry friend can be allergic to tomatoes and that’s why you should never feed ANYTHING to her before you consult with your vet. You don‘t know how severe her symptoms can get. And, you certainly don’t want her to experience them to find out.

But, on the off chance that your four-legged friend does eat the wrong tomato (or the wrong part of the tomato), you might want to keep an eye out for some of the most common symptoms.

Anything ranging from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, to weakness, loss of coordination, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal upset should be a good enough reason to contact your vet. Tomato allergies aren‘t fatal, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2. Tomato plant poisoning

“Can cats eat tomatoes?”, more like “Can cats contract a deadly tomato plant poisoning from eating the wrong part of the tomato plant?” Because the answer’s a hundred times YES, cats can get seriously sick from eating an unripe tomato or pretty much any part of the tomato plant.

You see, green tomatoes and green parts of the tomato contain compounds known as solanine and tomatine. These compounds are EXTREMELY poisonous to cats and can cause a bunch of digestive and health problems when consumed.

Some of the most common symptoms of tomato plant poisoning are excessive thirst and urination, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, extreme stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Severe symptoms are heart rate changes, behavior changes, depression of the nervous system, and physical weakness. Sure, ingestion of the unripe fruit doesn’t always cause severe symptoms. But, who’s to say your feline friend’s going to be an exception?

Contact your vet THE MOMENT that you notice any of these symptoms. They should be able to induce vomiting to get rid of these toxins, provide your feline friend with proper supportive care, and supply her with a generous amount of electrolytes and fluids.

Can cats eat ripe tomatoes?

Yes, cats can eat ripe tomatoes! That’s pretty much the only type of tomatoes cats can eat without any repercussions. Ripe tomatoes (or red tomatoes) don’t contain the same compounds other parts of the tomato plant contain.

Ripe tomatoes can be a great pick-me-up because they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. So, on the off chance that your furry friend can’t live without an occasional tomato, that‘s the one you should look for at the nearest Trader Joe’s.

Can cats eat unripe tomatoes?

No, cats can’t eat unripe tomatoes! Unripe tomatoes contain compounds solanine and tomatine that are EXTREMELY poisonous to cats. Consuming unripe tomatoes (or parts of the tomato plant) can cause tomato plant poisoning.

And trust me, you don’t want your precious purrincess experiencing ANY symptoms of tomato plant poisoning. You’re better off finding her a hobby that doesn’t include running through your tomato garden.

Can cats eat cherry tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes are pretty much the same as regular tomatoes, they’re just smaller and cuter. So, cats can eat ripe cherry tomatoes. But, they should steer clear of the unripe ones and the cherry tomato plant.

But, there’s always something better to munch on that doesn’t include a bunch of side effects and adverse reactions. Next time your cat’s meowing and purring to let her take a bite, try giving her a zucchini or a cucumber and see what happens.

Can cats eat tomato sauce, tomato soup, or tomato juice?

Short answer – NO, cats can‘t eat any of these tomato products. Long answer – tomato sauce, tomato soup, and tomato juice contain a bunch of other ingredients that can cause harm to your cat’s health.

We’re talking about salt, seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, chili pepper, cayenne pepper, black pepper), additives, and preservatives. Trust me, you don’t want these ingredients anywhere near your precious purrincess.

Can cats eat ketchup?

Cats can’t eat ketchup so snatch that pizza out of your cat’s paws before it’s too late! Same as with other tomato products, ketchup contains a bunch of ingredients that can cause harm to your four-legged friend (even more than the tomato itself).

Trust me, you don’t want your furry friend munching on onion or garlic. And, don’t even get me started on Xylitol and other sweeteners (completely unnecessary). Your cat’s better off chewing on something that won’t send her to the emergency animal center.

Conclusion

Our friends over at the ASPCA don’t recommend feeding tomatoes to your cat FOR A GOOD REASON. Ripe tomatoes are pretty great, but unripe tomatoes can cause harm to your cat’s health as they’re EXTREMELY poisonous. And, same goes for other parts of the tomato plants.

Are the risks worth the benefits? We don‘t think that but feel free to consult with your vet and draw your own conclusions.

You’re enjoying yourself some sweet potatoes with something on the side but this moment of satisfaction is short-lived.

I love my cat but I really want to be left alone when I’m eating. However, she somehow tends to find me wherever I am and beg for some of what I’m having.

I don’t know about you but I got used to it as long as she doesn’t scream at me which she used to do. But does this mean we should give in to all of their wishes and demands?

Either way, we must find out can cats eat sweet potatoes. Now, I know what you’re probably thinking: “Why wouldn’t they be able? I just saw mine do that!”

Sure you did. They can do anything they put their mind to. That’s one thing, but the other thing we should pay close attention to is whether she should’ve done that.

Unfortunately, there are foods that cats can’t eat for their own safety. Sometimes, it’s hard for humans to understand that even though they wish them all the best.

Can cats eat sweet potatoes?

We tend to get confused because we seem to humanize our pets. It feels like the only right thing to do but then the harsh reality reminds us that they’re just animals.

Given that fact, they also need to be treated like ones. I mean that we should provide them with the best care possible but we shouldn’t become selfish along the way.

We think of our felines as our best friends which is true, but we must be aware that they’re built differently than us. I’m saying this because people often tend to offer them human foods.

While some of them are totally safe and can even be quite beneficial, others are not. Most human food is okay for cats to eat, but there are also some exceptions.

Can cats eat sweet potatoes or is it one of those veggies your pet should steer clear of? Let’s find out so we can stop worrying about it!

Do sweet potatoes benefit your cat?

As a veggie, it’s guaranteed that sweet potatoes are going to have certain health benefits. You wouldn’t think that a plant material could benefit a carnivore, but here we are.

Life is sometimes full of surprises and this is one of them. Yes, cats can eat sweet potatoes, but only in moderation. But first and foremost, I’d rather consult with your vet before doing anything new.

Introducing new foods is an even harder task, especially when you have spoiled pets that are only used to expensive foods. However, it surely wouldn’t hurt you if you tried.

1. Protein

It’s something that’s really not that expected of sweet potatoes, but they actually contain an amount of protein. So, not only can cats eat sweet potatoes, but they might be quite beneficial!

Protein is an essential nutrient that obligate carnivores simply can’t live without. It fuels their body and helps them in a range of other bodily functions.

It gives your pet the needed energy, a full glow with her brand-new coat, as well as bone strength. Without this magnificent nutrient, your feline would probably become ill too soon.

2. Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 are just a few of the other nutrients we can find in sweet potatoes. If you’re wondering “can cats eat sweet potatoes“, the health supplements say yes.

All of these fantastic benefits work together to keep the body healthy and happy. For instance, vitamin C repairs the body tissues and supports the immune system in check.

Calcium and vitamin D work in pairs as this combination is crucial to your cat’s health. It feeds her bones which is essential for their growth and strength.

Did you ever wonder what makes her teeth and claws so sharp and dangerous? Of course! You should be thankful to these health supplements for all of the scratches and bite marks on your arms.

Jokes aside, all of these vitamins and minerals work together to keep your pet safe and healthy. Sweet potatoes have a good amount of them, but this doesn’t really mean you should feed them to your cat.

3. All the fibers

Another health advantage of cats eating sweet potatoes is dietary fiber. It’s a nutrient that helps regulate your pet’s digestive health. Trust me, fiber plays a big role.

It helps your feline break down, and process the food. Dietary fiber might help with constipation and ease stomach pains. On the contrary, it might also have an adverse effect.

If you overdo it and your cat gets to indulge in foods that are high in fiber, she may get diarrhea and stomach pains. It’s a thin line, I know.

Therefore, don’t feed your pet too much fiber because it isn’t a pleasant case scenario. Veggies can be great, but don’t overdo it.

What could go wrong?

Unfortunately, just like it has something beneficial, every food has a downside to it. And so do sweet potatoes.

Humans can’t really single out an issue when it comes to this delicious food. However, the tables might be turning when it comes to cats.

You see, felines are obligate carnivores and this means something. It implies that their natural choice of food is meat.

This, of course, doesn’t include vegetables or fruits. The thing is that animal-based foods provide your cat with essential nutrients such as protein.

Sure, we just saw that sweet potatoes contain traces of protein. But is that enough to keep a carnivore satisfied? Unfortunately, it’s nowhere near. Although cats can eat sweet potatoes as an occasional snack, they’re not as beneficial or valuable to your pet as meat is.

Therefore, sweet potatoes shouldn’t be anything more than an occasional snack. Otherwise, you might even jeopardize your feline’s health.

If your pet just had one sweet potato, it’s no biggie. However, she might have some trouble breaking it down because she isn’t wired to digest plant material.

Also, the protein and other health supplements found in this veggie probably won’t be used to their full extent. Felines are made to digest meat, not greens.

Calorie and carb-dense food

Unfortunately, even with certain benefits, sweet potatoes have another side to them. I know you just got your hopes up, but there’s always a but…

The but that we’re talking about here are calories and carbs. Sweet potatoes are packed with them so it’s hard to say that it’s healthy food.

Humans don’t have many problems with digesting carbs and losing the calories later on. On the other hand, cats do.

Just like they’re not wired to break down the protein that comes from plants, felines might also struggle with digesting the carbs from sweet potatoes.

Sadly, your cat could quickly feel the consequences of this food intake. What I mean to say is that your pet would probably become overweight if she continues to eat these.

Next to obesity, there’s a risk of dental decay, as well as diabetes. A bowl of sweet potatoes just isn’t worth it, trust me.

Can cats eat cooked potatoes?

Although sweet potatoes aren’t poisonous to cats, regular ones are; especially raw potatoes. Therefore, we pose a question: Can cats eat cooked potatoes?

You see, raw potatoes contain a chemical compound called solanine. This might bring your cat a lot of trouble if she decides to feast on it.

However, there’s a simple method that makes potatoes safe for cats to eat. Thankfully, it’s quite simple, it’s called cooking.

Generally speaking, high temperatures kill off any germs, bacteria, as well as parasites in raw food. With that same method, you can easily get rid of solanine.

Still, don’t get ahead of yourself. By losing a dangerous threat, you might gain another – spices. Cats can’t eat spices because some of them are poisonous.

Therefore, if you want to know can cats eat sweet and cooked potatoes, stick to these steps. Peeling, cooking, no spices or seasonings, and no frying in oil.

This way, the delicious food will be ready for you to share with your feline companion. The most important thing is that it’s going to be a carefree share that you two can enjoy together.

Perhaps you never expected to pay attention to it, but maybe your feline companion showed some interest in this vegetable. They never cease to amaze us, but somehow, I still find myself dumbstruck with some of their choices.

It’s no secret that felines are naturally inquisitive creatures, but did curiosity kill the cat? I believe this is something all cat parents are afraid of.

But it makes you think just how dangerous a vegetable can be. Well, you’d be surprised to find out that there’s more to them than what meets the eye.

Thankfully, lettuce is not one of those undercover bad guys. It’s as harmless as it appears to be. But just how attractive can it be to carnivores?

Can cats eat lettuce safely?

There’s nothing stopping your furry friend from having a bite of this green vegetable. And I mean literally.

Cats need to get what they want. Otherwise, all hell breaks loose. They’re curious but determined. It seems that cat parents just can’t catch a break.

Thankfully, not everything’s so gray. If we can’t stop them from doing something, we at least want to know that they won’t get in danger.

Lettuce seems to be on our side. This veggie isn’t harmful to felines so you can release that breath you’ve been holding in. We love them, but our cats can sometimes give us a hard time.

But, you know that there’s something off about cats eating greens. You’ve never heard of a carnivore eating herbs, so what could it be?

Does your cat have an undiscovered interest in vegetables? Is she secretly a vegan? Do they even like greens at all?

Do cats even like lettuce?

This is probably the thing that’s most interesting to you right now. We know their underlying love for meat can’t be beaten by some plain lettuce.

However, can cats eat lettuce with as much eagerness as we do? Or are they just taking a bite out of it because of their curiosity?

To be honest, felines are amazing creatures and they’re all individuals. It means they think on their own, and what suits one, might not suit the other.

Therefore, we can never say with certainty that all cats love lettuce or any other vegetable. My cat sometimes doesn’t even want to eat the same meat she had yesterday.

Well, she’s spoiled but I think you get the point. Therefore, you never know if you don’t even try. I suggest you offer her some of this treat because it holds many benefits for cats.

The green stuff is the good stuff!

We know humans need to eat vegetables in order to stay fit and healthy. But what about cats? Are they in need of this green fuel as much as we are?

Actually, no. Felines are obligate carnivores and they need meat to survive. Therefore, vegetables aren’t their main choice of diet.

Honestly, they’re totally unnecessary and your pet could go on to live a healthy life without any greens.

But what when those greens have something to offer to your feline? Especially when they have much to offer? Well, let me tell you that you don’t skip an offer this good.

Although lettuce isn’t essential for your cat’s survival, it can provide her with many nutritional benefits.

1. Full of vitamins and minerals

Just like any veggie out there, lettuce is an amazing source of health supplements such as vitamins and minerals.

It can provide your pet with an array of benefits, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, calcium, magnesium, and a bunch of others.

All these are essential and play important roles in your pet’s health. They boost her overall immune system and fuel her body.

Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D strengthen cats’ bones and help them bounce around the house without pain.

Other vitamins do a ton of helping out the body functions as well. They are crucial for maintaining healthy metabolism in your cat. These kinds of supplements support healthy nervous system activity and muscular contractions.

2. A great source of fiber

Dietary fiber, which is abundant in lettuce and other veggies, may help lower the risk of heart disease. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain this fiber, along with legumes.

It could be advantageous for your cat’s health. To aid digestion, dietary fiber is frequently included in cat food, and lettuce is a great source of it.

The advantages of dietary fiber are seen in how your cat’s digestive system operates. It can therefore aid in preventing constipation.

However, too much of this nutrient might prove to have an adverse effect. If your pet feasts on lettuce all the time, she might get the runs.

Therefore, try to feed your cat moderate amounts of foods with high levels of fiber. That way you’ll do her digestive health a great favor.

3. Bits of protein

“Can cats eat lettuce? Traces of protein say yes!”

If you didn’t already know, cats need protein for survival. It’s the number one nutrient essential for their health and growth.

It does all sorts of great things for their body. For example, protein is an amazing source of energy. Your pet’s been tireless because of this nutrient.

Moreover, it keeps her warm during cold winter nights. The list goes on and on and it’s full of health advantages protein offers.

However, there’s something that you must also take into consideration. While protein is amazing and cats need it, they mostly benefit from animal-based ones.

The protein found in vegetables and fruits often can’t replace the one found in meat. First of all, veggies and fruits never have the same amount of protein.

Second of all, it comes from plant material which is hard for felines to break down. She might struggle a bit with using all the health benefits found in lettuce.

If you don’t want your pet having issues with consuming veggies but only benefiting from them, take notes. Moderation is the key, as well as the way you prepare food for your pet.

4. Packed with antioxidants

Speaking of good stuff, we have to touch upon the antioxidants. These nutrients can be found in various vegetables, fruits, as well as meat.

They’re substances that fight off free radicals in the body. This implies that they help prevent various diseases from attacking or spreading in the body.

One of the antioxidants’ important properties is anti-inflammatory. This works wonders, especially in cats who suffer from chronic inflammation, such as arthritis.

Next to anti-inflammatory, antioxidants have antibacterial and antifungal properties that help keep your feline’s health in check. With these good guys around, you don’t have to worry about her well-being.

Her immune system is in top health when she’s surrounded by all these health supplements. Not to mention other bodily functions.

5. Helps with hydration

One of the most important things for every living being is water, right? However, cats and water seem to be in a bit of a fight.

If you haven’t noticed by now, cats hate water. Not all of them, but many despise it. I can’t really put my finger on it, but I bet they don’t like being wet.

Therefore, it’s a rare occurrence to see a feline even drinking water. But, we all know just how important it is to stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days.

Many cat parents struggle with their furbabies to make water more appealing. They just seem to have a mind of their own.

It’s like they’re trying to make a deal with us. Give us wet food and we won’t need any water. And it also seems to be working because I have to give her canned food because she won’t stop screaming at me.

Unfortunately, all of the water fountains I’ve bought until now were just a waste of money. She never gets close enough to them to take a sip of water.

However, there is some good news after all. For all those pets who don’t like water, God created lettuce. It’s an amazing source of hydration and could easily get the job done.

You and your pet don’t have to go through the stress of making her drink water anymore. All it takes is just to give her small bits of lettuce every now and then.

You can even put it on top of her dry food or mix it in for some extra hydration. Wet food is sometimes just not enough to ease our worries.

6. Healthy fats

One of the most important nutrients for a cat’s body next to protein is fats. They also help keep her body warm and fuel her with energy.

However, we have two types of fat. The healthy and unhealthy ones. The healthy ones can be found in lettuce. There’s not much, but it’s enough for an occasional snack.

Unsaturated fats, which is another name for them, are healthy fats that everybody needs. Your pet greatly benefits from them, especially if they’re animal-based.

What’s so good about these lipids is that they lower blood cholesterol and help keep the blood pressure down. Moreover, they may aid in preventing blood clots and heart diseases.

Numerous heart diseases and strokes can be prevented with the intake of these healthy fats. On the other hand, saturated fats are one of the main reasons for cardiovascular diseases. Thankfully, there are no saturated fats in lettuce.

Can cats eat lettuce all the time?

The thing with lettuce is that it’s harmless, but you should still be wary of it. You see, our pets tend to be a bit sensitive even if it doesn’t seem so.

Therefore, cats can eat lettuce but in moderation. If you wonder why’s that, it’s actually rather simple. Lettuce is a vegetable that might serve as a great snack, but that’s it.

An occasional treat doesn’t mean you should incorporate this food into your cat’s diet and put it on the main menu. That’s just now how things work.

I’ve already mentioned that felines are obligate carnivores which means they put meat in the first place. No cat would ever pick a piece of green stuff over fresh meat.

Therefore, it’s only logical to conclude that while cats can eat lettuce, they shouldn’t indulge in it all the time. Also, lettuce has a significant amount of calories and carbs that are uninvited.

1. Calorie and carb presence

Even though it’s not such a big deal, the downside to cats eating lettuce is that it has calories and carbs. Although it contains less than most of the veggies out there, it’s still present.

You must wonder why it is so bad and can cats eat lettuce because of it. Sure, the answer stays the same – yes, cats can eat lettuce. But…

Carbs and calories aren’t really welcomed with arms wide open in the feline world. The reason behind this is that they make them overweight very quickly.

Carbs and calories have a negative effect on your feline’s health, just like they have on ours. However, you’d think that our furry children can bear with it better than we can.

Actually, you’d be wrong. The number of calories and carbs that increases is guaranteed to leave some consequences. For instance, obesity, as well as diabetes, and tooth decay.

Now, I’m not saying that this is bound to happen if your pet feasts on some of the veggies. All I’m saying is that there’s still a downside to something though it has all the health benefits.

This, however, doesn’t mean that you should ban your furry companion from eating lettuce. It would just be good to moderate her intake just for the sake of your sanity.

2. Can cats eat lettuce because of sugar?

That’s right, sugar! It might sound weird, but some vegetables contain certain amounts of sugar. Most fruits do, but when it comes to veggies, we have the sugar in lettuce.

It’s nothing serious and nothing too bad, but it’s worth mentioning. Cats can eat lettuce, but I keep reminding you that moderation is the key.

With all the health advantages lettuce has, it can also have a bad side to it. Sugar isn’t toxic to cats, but isn’t really beneficial either.

You see, the more sugar felines eat, the heavier they become. It’s the same as with humans. Therefore, we all must keep an eye on our diet and cut down on some lettuce.

Jokes aside, sugar might be your cat’s enemy. Felines don’t actually have a sweet tooth but they’re not here for the sugar.

They’re probably here because of the crunchy sound the lettuce makes. Whatever it may be, keep in mind that lettuce is good, but overdoing it is not.

Bottom line

Can cats eat lettuce? This is an interesting question and I’m sure it’s one you weren’t expecting to come across. However, it found its way into your mind, and here we are.

Hopefully, you fully understand now all the benefits and possible downsides to cats eating lettuce. Take into consideration that you’re feeding veggies to a carnivore.

But most of all, remember that each and every pet has a mind of its own. Therefore, while something might be good for them, perhaps they decide otherwise.

If so, don’t try to force them into something they’re not. Cats usually have great instincts that tell them what they can and can’t do.

But if she decides to give it a go, be aware of all the nutritional benefits lettuce holds. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, fats, and much more.

Take time to do your research and don’t forget to call your vet for further information. I’m sure your pet’s not transforming into a vegan; maybe it’s just a phase.

Your cat hasn’t been showing much interest in anything other than her regular cat food and cat treats. But, you can’t help but notice she’s been complaining (meowing, scratching, and tapping her paws) lately.

She’s been trying to get her paws on pretty much anything you’ve been cooking up in the kitchen. She’s been trying to sniff, lick and bite into your Caprese bruschetta, creamy mushroom risotto, and spinach gratin. And let’s be honest, you can’t really stop her from scoffing down the entire thing.

According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), you have nothing to worry about. Cats can (and should) eat spinach as this leafy green contains a bunch of nutritional and health benefits.

Don’t believe us? Throw a quick glance at the back of your cat’s regular cat food. There’s a pretty good chance you’ll find spinach listed as one of the main ingredients. There’s no surprise there when you know that spinach happens to be one of the few veggies (salads, plants, leafy greens!?) that are safe for cats.

What’s spinach?

Spinacia oleracea (no, this isn’t the title of the new Harry Potter movie), is a leafy green vegetable otherwise known as spinach.

Spinach originated in Persia but you can find it pretty much everywhere in the world. You can find it fresh, frozen, or canned. And you can eat it cooked or raw depending on your mood.

Spinach is packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can count on getting your daily dose of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin, K, iron, folate, and potassium from a single serving size of spinach. And, let’s not forget about the amazing health benefits spinach brings to your table.

Relief of oxidative stress, prevention of cancer, improvement of blood pressure levels, and conservation of eye health are only some of the health benefits you can count on… as a human.

Do cats have the same benefits from spinach as humans do? Can cats eat spinach the same way humans do? Can cats eat spinach as a regular part of their diet? Here’s everything you need to know about cats, spinach, and their ever-so-complicated relationship.

So, can cats eat spinach?

Your curious creature found your secret spinach stash and scoffed down every single leaf? You have nothing to worry about because cats can eat spinach. Even our friends over at the APSCA have nothing negative to say about this leafy green.

Hold your horses (or better yet, hold your cats), because you might not want to run off to the nearest Trader Joe’s to get a pack of spinach right away. While spinach shouldn’t cause adverse reactions to your cat, that doesn’t mean you should include it in your cat’s regular diet.

You see, cats are obligate carnivores. They require heaps of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diet to survive. They don’t require fruits, veggies, and grains the same way humans do.

Actually, their digestive systems don’t possess the enzymes necessary to break down most foods humans eat regularly. Do you want to surprise your furry friend with a warm cup of milk? Cats are lactose intolerant! You want to give her a bite of your chocolate chip cupcake? Cats are allergic to chocolate!

You get the picture, right? Cats can eat spinach but that doesn’t mean that they should (at least not all the time). Your cat’s much better off munching on Trader Joe’s Turkey and Giblets Dinner than getting a tummy ache from an overpriced packet of spinach ($2.29, really?!).

What’s good about spinach?

How about everything?! There’s a reason why every single recipe you stumble upon in a food magazine (or even on TikTok) asks for at least a handful of spinach. Such a minuscule amount of spinach contains pretty much every vitamin, mineral, or antioxidant your body needs.

And yes, the same applies to your furry friend! A couple of spinach leaves here and there can provide your cat with an array of nutritional and health benefits. And, you should take a look at some of them before you make your decision regarding the role you want this leafy green to play in your cat’s life.

1. Vitamins

Yes, yes, and yes! Spinach is beaming with vitamins that can make your cat’s life better, healthier, and happier. Your cat should get most of her nutrients from other animals, but there’s no shame in looking for a bit of somethin’-somethin’ from a different source.

Let’s talk vitamins! Spinach contains a bunch of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K which might seem like you’re reading the back of the most organic, cold-pressed orange juice. And you’re actually reading about the never-ending nutritional benefits your furry friend can get from a mere handful of spinach.

You’re not convinced, yet?

Vitamin C happens to be an essential vitamin for cats that typically gets synthesized in your cat’s liver. But, your cat might be experiencing health problems that are preventing her from producing her own vitamin C. Oranges are out of the question (obviously), and that’s where spinach steps in.

Vitamin A comes at a close second place (still essential, though) and helps your cat maintain healthy eyesight, skin, and coat. Vitamin A happens to be one of those vitamins you need when you’re trying to make your cat star in the upcoming Rapunzel live-action remake.

Last but not least, vitamin K helps your cat maintain a healthy liver. Let’s just say that (on the off chance that she’s reading this article with you) your cat’s attempts to snatch every last leaf of spinach are accounted for.

2. Minerals

Yes, cats can eat spinach! But, more importantly, cats should eat spinach because these leafy greens are beaming with minerals that can influence your cat’s health most positively. Calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and magnesium are only some of them.

These minerals are great for your cat’s nerve, muscle, and thyroid function. They’re also great for maintaining the health of your cat’s skin (Bella Hadid, who?) and hair (again, Bella Hadid, who?!). With that (pretty lame) joke aside, we can agree that spinach brings a lot to your and your cat’s table.

3. Fiber

And we can’t forget about fiber! Fiber happens to be one of the most important things your cat can get from plants. Wild cats get fiber from the stomachs of other animals and from munching on wild plants and leaves while they’re chasing the sun.

But, Mrs. McFluffer doesn’t do any of that. She spends her days purring, posing for the latest cover of Vogue (or at least that’s what she looks like she’s doing), and waiting for you to bring her breakfast to bed. That’s where spinach comes to play!

She can’t afford to have digestive problems while she’s working her little under-the-tail area to pay the bills (yes, she’s still working on that Vogue cover). Spinach contains a bunch of fiber, and fiber does wonders for her digestive system.

You see, fiber provides bulk to help food move through her digestive tract. Fiber also retains water within her digestive tract which, in turn, helps with constipation and diarrhea.

While that might not be the most glamorous conversation to have with your precious purrincess, she should be delighted to reap the spinach benefits.

What’s bad about spinach?

“Too much of anything could make you sick”, as someone once said. While spinach does seem like one of the best leafy greens your cat can get her paws on, there are some downsides to consuming too much spinach on a regular.

Nobody wants to see their furry friend rushing to her litterbox because of something green, right? Let’s be honest, your cat wouldn’t even mind spending the rest of the day switching between diarrhea and vomiting after eating a paw-licking steak. But, spinach?!

1. Spinach isn’t a natural part of a cat’s diet

We’ve talked about this, right? Cats are carnivores which means they thrive on meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients. They’re the happiest (and healthiest) when they’re munching on carefully crafted cat food, cat kibble, and cat treats.

They’re pretty happy when they’re enjoying an occasional bite of chicken, turkey, beef, and fish, too. But, they don’t seem like they’re enjoying themselves that much when they’re chewing on leafy greens such as spinach.

Sure, they break into your garden, turn every vegetable upside down (even turnip, seriously?), and scoff down every spinach leaf they can get their paws on.

But, they’re only doing that because they’re curious and want to check what the fuss seems to be about. And because they’re rude, but that’s beside the point.

So, cats can eat spinach but spinach shouldn’t be a regular part of their diet. They can have a couple of leaves with their regular cat food, munch on a handful in between the meals, or nibble on homemade spinach (cat-friendly) cookies. But, that’s pretty much enough.

2. Spinach can cause harm to cats with urinary problems

And right when we thought spinach couldn’t do anything wrong! Unfortunately, what you’re reading happens to be completely true because of something known as calcium oxalate. Calcium oxalate leads to the development of kidney stones and urinary tract stones.

These stones are difficult to remove (surgically or non-surgically) and they can cause a bunch of other health complications and detrimental diseases. And, you guessed it, spinach contains quite high levels of calcium oxalate.

Sure, your furry friend would have to devour A LOT of spinach to experience any of these repercussions. But, it’s always better to stay on the safe side and munch on something that doesn’t resemble a green monster.

Cats that are already dealing with kidney and urinary tract problems shouldn’t even catch a whiff of spinach (our way of saying “don’t let your unhealthy cat eat spinach!”). Other than that, your cat shouldn’t experience adverse reactions from a couple of leaves here and there.

Can cats eat raw spinach?

Yes, they can! Raw spinach might even be better for your furry friend than the cooked one. raw spinach contains more vitamins and minerals because the cooking process typically destroys some of them. Chewing on raw spinach in between her meals might be a great choice for your cat!

But… There’s always a but when it comes to feeding raw foods to your cat. Raw foods tend to contain a bunch of bacteria and parasites that can harm your cat’s health.

Wild cats are pretty much used to munching on whatever they aren’t supposed to munch on. But, your precious purrincess might not feel the same way when she eats a bunch of pesticides with her spinach.

Cooking does seem to solve this problem, so you might want to make that decision on your own. Consult with your vet, check whether your cat’s stomach has the guts (no pun intended) to break down those pesky passengers, and you’re good to go.

Can cats eat cooked spinach?

Yes, cats can eat cooked spinach! You might be thinking to yourself “the cooking process destroys everything good about spinach”, but that’s not entirely true. Spinach does lose some of the benefits through the cooking process, but there’s plenty left for your cat to reap.

Remember, cook the spinach without the butter, salt, seasonings, and other harmful ingredients to ensure your cat’s safety. Butter and salt might cause your cat to gain weight, become obese, or even develop diabetes.

Seasonings such as garlic powder and onion powder can even rush your cat to the emergency animal clinic (these two combined can even lead to a fatal outcome!). So, when you’re planning on sharing your creamy spinach risotto with your furry friend, make sure to forget everything you know about cooking.

Can cats eat spinach leaves?

Yes, they can! Actually, cats can eat pretty much every part of the spinach plant. Spinach doesn’t contain anything that might harm your cat in the long run, and spinach leaves aren’t an exception.

On the other hand, spinach leaves do contain the highest levels of calcium oxalate. That means that you should avoid feeding spinach leaves to your cat when she’s dealing with kidney disease, urinary tract disease, or any other related health problems.

Other than that, feel free to add a handful of spinach leaves to your cat’s favorite Tender Tuna or Fancy Feast. Trust me, she will absolutely adore having some variety in her (otherwise boring) dinners.

And, can cats eat other leafy greens?

That’s another yes! Cats might not need veggies and leafy greens as a regular part of their diet, but they can certainly benefit from them now and then. Vitamin, minerals, and antioxidants tenure your cat’s health the same way protein, amino acids, and fatty acids do.

But, it’s also important to emphasize that certain veggies and leafy greens aren’t safe for your furry friend. That’s why it’s incredibly important to consult with your vet before adding anything out of the ordinary to your cat’s diet. And yes, that includes spinach, too.

Other than that, feel free to choose between some of these veggies when you’re preparing a homemade meal for your cat. Broccoli, carrots, kale, collard greens, and bok choy make for a paw-licking stew) or even a salad). Peas, corn, squash, green beans, and zucchini don’t fall behind.

On the other hand, avoid veggies such as onion, garlic, leeks, scallion, shallots, and chives because they’re toxic to cats (according to our friends over at the ASPCA). Mushrooms, eggplant, avocado, and rhubarb shouldn’t make the groceries list, either.

What’s the final verdict? Can cats eat spinach?

Yes, cats can eat spinach! Feel free to add a couple of spinach leaves to your cat’s favorite food or make a homemade spinach supper as a great pick-me-up after a long day of meowing and purring.

This cold-season veggie is growing like crazy in your backyard and your little feline keeps playing around with it. Do you think she ate some parts? She’s definitely enjoying that crunchy pea pod and there’s nothing you can do about it.

If nothing seems to be wrong with your furbaby, keep checking up on her from time to time (especially if it’s the first time she’s eating it) and continue reading to find out if it’s safe for your feline to eat peas.

We both know that cats usually are not a big fan of fruits and veggies and you probably can’t turn them into vegans (I say probably because I still haven’t googled if someone actually tried). They are obligate carnivores which means that meat is their primary source of nutrition.

However, their curiosity will take them places and therefore they’ll definitely want to steal something off your plate, especially if they see you’re enjoying it.

It’s absolutely true, you can serve them some human food in moderate amounts. There are probably certain foods that you’d never even think of sharing with her, but somebody did. But what about this green veggie though? Is there going to be a problem if your cat ate a piece of it?

Without further ado, let’s solve the dilemma, can cats eat peas or this veggie is a no-go.

Can cats eat peas safely?

Of course! This is one of those veggies that has a lot of nutrition and can be a valuable asset to our feline’s diet. It may be strange for her at the beginning, especially if you serve her only those round seeds.

But I guarantee you, she’ll enjoy munching on peas, either frozen, raw or cooked. There are three different types of peas and all of them are safe for your cat. We’ll explain in a detail a bit later, but that’s all that you need to know right now.

You can get creative and serve her something colorful. Mix peas, carrots, and cauliflower for example, and give her one healthy veggie salad. I’m sure she’ll enjoy it.

There may be some negative effects if you serve human food to your kitty, but moderate amounts served periodically shouldn’t be harmful. However, if you do notice some changes, contact your vet right away.

She may be having an allergic reaction or she consumed a larger dose than suggested, but he’s going to help her no matter what. If it’s too far to go and visit him, he may give you some instructions over the phone as well.

All the pros of peas for your feline

So apparently, your little furbaby munched on peas. Did she eat leaves, just a shell or those little green pearls within? Maybe she took one pea pod from your basket? Whatever it is, don’t worry too much.

Peas are among those vegetables that are highly nutritious both for our felines and us. It’s not going to harm her if she eats a bit from time to time. They are low in calories and they have a lot of vitamins and minerals your cat can benefit from.

Fiber is extremely important for the digestive system. When consumed in moderate amounts, it helps with digestion and constipation. So, in case your feline has some stomach issues, serving her peas may actually help.

Iron is much needed for strengthening our red blood cells and for transferring oxygen from our lungs to every tissue in our bodies. And, you’ve guessed it right, it’s the same for our feline.

Manganese and copper are present and needed in small amounts for all beings in order for our bodies to function normally. Peas also contain these two highly important minerals.

Vitamin C is the one I don’t have to talk about too much. It will help boost her immune system, but consuming it has to be moderate.

Vitamin B1 is an essential nutrient that cannot be made in the human body so that’s why we need to ingest it through our food. Peas have a lot of it. It’s very important for our nervous system and it helps in the normal functioning of our hearts and brains. The same applies to our feline.

Vitamin K is the one responsible for normal blood flow and its clogging, so it’s really important for it to be present in our bodies. It also helps with wound healing, which is why this is one of the most important vitamins your kitty needs.

Potassium is sometimes also referred to as an electrolyte since it carries a little charge that is important for activating and normal functioning of nerves.

All the cons of peas for your feline

So, even though there are a lot of good things in peas and they are packed with all of these vitamins and minerals, it’s not a great idea to serve only this. Your feline needs meat in her diet and you should never forget that.

Rather serve frozen peas to your furbaby than canned ones, since they may be high in sodium which can be harmful to your cat. Frozen peas can be a great snack for a hot summer day and I’m sure she’ll enjoy the crunch!

Naturally, cats can react negatively to peas. If we’re being honest, it can happen with any kind of human food that we decide to serve to her. She can have an allergic reaction or an upset stomach, so give her smaller amounts.

Peas contain lecithin, a protein that is often used as an insecticide, but it’s not toxic to cats. However, they may face some digestion problems if they consume too much.

If your feline is allergic to peas, look for signs like diarrhea, sleepiness, and vomiting and she may even have some difficulties breathing. I don’t have to emphasize that if you notice any of these, you have to contact your vet ASAP.

Can cats eat green peas?

Green peas are actually one of the healthiest veggies you can serve to your feline. These are often called English peas or simply garden peas.

Their shell has to be removed because it’s not easy for us to digest them either and they can be a choking hazard as well. You can serve them cooked, raw, or frozen. Don’t feed it often to your feline though.

They contain a decent amount of carbs and overconsumption may lead to obesity in cats. Also, I assume you enjoy it when your peas have that extra spice in them.

If you decide to prepare this green seed for your lunch, make sure you don’t serve leftovers to your furbaby. Butter, salt, onion, and garlic are a big no for your little buddy and that actually makes peas a delicious meal for us.

If you want, boil them (or steam) in plain water and serve a couple of them with their regular food. You can also make them a mushy paste of peas. They’ll like the texture. It would be best to avoid serving her soup made of these, simply because of seasoning.

Can cats eat snow peas?

Snow peas are something extremely popular in Chinese cuisine. Their name comes from the fact that they are able to survive in extremely cold conditions. They are thin and just a couple of minutes away from being fully cooked.

They are consumed whole and they have little seeds inside the shell. You add some fresh lemon juice and there you go, you have a perfectly refreshing side dish. But can you give one pea pod or two to your feline?

Sure thing! Your kitty will definitely enjoy the crunch of this if you serve it raw. Munching on a shell may cause choking, so you should be careful about that. Also, serving her boiled snow peas (without seasoning) can be a great treat for your feline.

Can cats eat sugar snap peas?

Sugar snap peas get a big yes. This kind of peas is a hybrid (snow peas and English peas) and it has the best of both worlds. They have more rounded seeds and they are a perfect crunch. You can eat them with or without that pea pod, your choice.

They can be prepared in less than 10 minutes and you can always discover new ways to prepare them. They are a perfect spring treat.

And another bonus is that your feline is absolutely going to enjoy this treat. They are crispy, delicious, and healthy. Who would skip something like that? You can serve them as a part of some salad, or just sprinkle it around her bowl with regular cat food.

Whole pea pods cut in pieces, only those perfectly round green seeds, fresh, cooked, frozen – you can choose whatever you like!

What is an everlasting pea plant and is it toxic for cats?

The everlasting pea plant is commonly known as sweet peas and they are toxic to our domestic animals, including cats. Fortunately, this one won’t get your feline’s attention, unless she’s an extremely curious little devil.

If you notice that she’s slowed down a bit, has diarrhea, or is vomiting, and you suspect that she may have consumed sweet peas, contact your vet immediately. In some extreme cases, eating this kind of peas may risk one of their nine lives.

To wrap it up…

In the end, peas are definitely not a bad choice as a supplement to your feline’s diet. Maybe it would be best to completely avoid the pod because it can be a chinking hazard, but it’s not necessary.

You can serve them frozen, just pay attention that they are not too hard so she won’t hurt her teeth. Raw peas or simply boiled in plain water is something your cat will love!

Even though peas are healthy and they have high nutritive value, they should never be the main course. I mean your little carnivore needs some meat and wet cat food, right?

All three types of peas (green peas, sugar snap peas, and snow peas) are completely safe for your kitty to consume, in moderate amounts. Sweet peas ate the only toxic type of this veggie that can be extremely harmful to your furbaby.

However, in case you notice any sign of poisoning or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention right away. Consulting your vet before you give her human food will actually prevent all those harmful consequences that may happen.

You probably dropped just a little piece of celery while preparing soup the other day and your furbaby seemed to enjoy munching on it. That’s how you discovered that she likes celery. Maybe it’s the taste, maybe it’s the crunchy texture, but she absolutely loves it!

But what about the health benefits or negative effects it can have? Do you think she consumed a bit too much while you were busy cleaning that kitchen counter and didn’t notice the exact amount? We’ll talk about that as well.

Celery is used in cooking as a spice as well as one of the main ingredients for vegetable soup. You can use both its stalk and leaves to prepare delicious meals. But what we usually forget is that celery seeds have important applications.

They have medicinal properties as an herbal remedy, salt is made out of them, and they can be used as a spice. Also, essential oils extracted from the seeds are used in the perfume industry – many people love the earthy scent.

We mostly use essential oils for massages and this one is no exception. Celery oil helps to relieve pain and is mostly used to treat rheumatism, arthritis, and gout. It also eases muscular pain after vigorous workouts.

You were probably aware of all the health benefits of this magical plant for human beings, but what about our furry friends? Can cats eat celery? Time to find out!

Can cats eat celery?

The shortest answer I can give you is yes, cats can eat celery. But before you decide on your own to change your cat’s diet, make sure you double-check with your vet how to go about it.

Since your feline friend is an obligate carnivore, her diet must include a lot of meat. Whichever human food that you want to introduce to her diet plan, introduce it solely as a snack, never as a full meal. You can also serve it as a side dish to her wet food, or mix it together.

Some veggies are good for your feline in moderate amounts, but you still have to be careful when sharing them with your furbaby. Carrots, peas, zucchini, lettuce, spinach, and pumpkin are just some of the cat-friendly veggie options. Your kitto will enjoy their taste and they provide nutritive value.

Celery fits in this group too. It’s a great snack for humans and also for our little furry fellas. So next time you take that celery stalk, give a little piece to your cat. And enjoy the view while she tries to grab a hold of it with her cute paws and go to town on it.

This vegetable is not toxic to cats, although overconsumption can lead to some light digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and upset stomach. That is if your cat is not allergic, of course. Otherwise, it goes without saying to avoid celery completely.

I know there’s probably no need for me to mention this, but before serving it up to your furchild, wash it carefully in plain water. This will rinse any residual chemicals if the celery was treated with some beforehand. Afterward, cut it into small, bite-sized parts before serving this delicacy to your cat.

What are the benefits of celery?

Now that we concluded that you can serve celery to your feline and how to prepare it properly, the time has come to learn all the benefits of this crunchy snack.

Celery is high in fiber, which is really good if your cat has some digestive issues. It also contains antioxidants called apigenin and luteolin, helping to soothe inflammation and reduce the risk of cancer.

This magical veggie is approximately 95% water, making it a great snack option to keep your cat hydrated. As mentioned before, however, too much celery and your cat may end up with diarrhea, which could lead to mild dehydration – the opposite of what you’re aiming for.

Moreover, celery is a natural diuretic, helps clean the body of toxins, and aids in regulating blood pressure and lowering triglyceride levels and cholesterol. It also helps the regeneration of neurons and eases constipation.

Its interesting texture is pleasurable for cats to chew on and they will inevitably enjoy that crunch! Even though it’s not being promoted as something cats should eat, celery has a lot of benefits and you can easily incorporate it into your feline’s meals every other day.

This means you shouldn’t serve this to your cat constantly, but rather in moderation. Do not hesitate to include it in your cat’s diet every once in a while because it can help to boost their immune system and keep their fur and skin healthy.

Similar to bean sprouts, zucchini, broccoli, spinach, and carrots, celery is rich in vitamins A, K, and C and minerals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, folate, and iron. They all regulate body functions like muscle contraction and blood flow.

Be mindful about the portions you’re serving to your feline because even if the food type is good and healthy, too much of anything can hurt her and result in health issues.

Chances are that you won’t be able to find celery as the main ingredient of cat food in stores, but there are a lot of recipes online that someone out there has experimented with. Just a reminder: Always consult with your vet before deciding to serve your cat human food.

Can cats drink celery juice?

The only part of this plant that you cannot feed to your cat is its root. So, if you mix some stalk and leaves all up and blend it to make refreshing juice, your adorable feline can have some.

It’s safe to serve your cat some celery juice, but make sure it’s not in large amounts. Cats are not used to drinking too much liquid and if they consume a bit more than they should, they may face some problems.

We’ve stated previously that one of the benefits this veggie brings to the table is hydration. Just pay attention to not give your cat more than she can handle (usually one to two tablespoons of juice daily).

Giving your feline some celery juice will prevent any possibility of choking.

Can cats eat celery leaves?

Some cats enjoy munching on celery leaves. You may catch them just rubbing their faces onto them. Yes, you read that right. Are you wondering why’s that the case?

Well, besides being nutrient-rich, celery leaves have a similar effect on cats as catnip. However, they do contain a small dose of toxic compound, but if your cat doesn’t eat a lot of it, she’ll be just fine.

If you notice that something’s off, like she’s got diarrhea and you suspect that she could’ve consumed a lot of celery, do not hesitate to obtain immediate medical assistance.

What about cooked celery?

Cooked celery is not something your kitty is likely to turn down. She’ll enjoy its taste and texture too! If she has some problems with chewing, cooking celery may help her get the best out of it.

Most vegetables lose some nutritive value when cooked and it’s not like you have to cook celery before serving. It’s not obligatory like for cauliflower, for example. Celery is best served raw and fresh, but it won’t be troublesome if you serve it warm and cooked either.

Just remember, if you want to cook it, don’t use any spice but rather serve it plain. Spicy food can have a negative effect on your feline’s digestive system and you truly want to avoid that.

Bonus tip

Since cats generally enjoy eating celery, you can make it a fun experience. Find a spot in your home where you can hang it by its stalk and let the leaves move freely.

You already know that celery leaves have a similar effect on cats to that of catnip, and she enjoys chewing on that stalk. What is her favorite activity? Hunting, right? And, you’ve probably used a feathery toy to entertain her from time to time.

It’s a win-win situation! You won’t have to worry about how much celery she consumed – you know exactly how much is hanging over there. And I guarantee you, she’ll enjoy playing with it and, of course, munching on it!

However, before you decide to introduce new ingredients and human food into your cat’s diet, always consult with your vet first.

And if she ate something before you had a chance to ask for advice, don’t panic. Monitor her and in case she shows any kind of abnormal behavior, do not hesitate to seek medical assistance.