What Fruits & Vegetables Can Pets Eat?

We all know that smaller pets, such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs, love fruit and vegetables. But while dogs and cats cannot healthily live on all-vegetarian diets, it is possible to add certain types of produce as supplements.

Whether you're looking to slim down your pet's waistline, or are just looking for healthy alternatives to commercial pet treats, we've got a great list for you! Many of the fruits and vegetables we eat can also be given to our pets, however some can be dangerous and should be avoided entirely. That's why our team at Trupanion's Pet Parenting got together and created this guide for pet parents.

Scroll down for a full list of the fruits and vegetables that are safe for pets. Or, take some time to read through some useful FAQs and tips.

Feeding pets fruits and vegetables: 5 common FAQs

It's always important to adhere to expert advice when incorporating fruits and vegetables into your pet’s diet. This means consulting with your veterinarian upfront, before you go ahead and start putting new things into your pet's bowl. Nevertheless, it's always a good idea to get a basic understanding of which fruits and vegetables have the biggest health benefits and what to do if you believe your cat or dog may have a food allergy.

We consulted with one of our own on-staff veterinarians for answers to some common FAQs in this area.

1. Should I let my dogs and cats eat fruits and vegetables?

"Your pet’s diet should be nutritionally balanced, low in fat and appropriate for your pet’s life stage," says Trupanion veterinarian Dr. Sarah Nold. "Adding fruits and vegetables to your pet’s diet can, in certain cases, help ensure that they’re getting plenty of essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, to help them stay strong and healthy and boost their immune system."

Nevertheless, Nold explains that it all comes down to making healthy choices — not all fruits and vegetables are safe for pets, nor do they offer equal amounts of nutrition. Still, the right selections can be better than traditional pet treats, as these can be high in calories and unhealthy ingredients.

2. How many fruits and vegetables should I feed my pet?

"I recommend moderation of any fruit or vegetable, even if considered safe," says Nold. "In addition, if the dog or cat is being treated by a veterinarian for an underlying medical condition it would be recommended to consult with the veterinarian before starting any new fruit or vegetable."

To practice further safety, Nold recommends starting small when introducing anything new into your pet's diet.

"Small amounts of vegetables can be incorporated into your pet’s regular food at meal times, or pea-sized pieces of fruits or vegetables can be given to your pet as a healthy, low-calorie snack," she says. "However, avoid feeding your pet fruits such as strawberries, bananas, and pineapple too often as they contain high levels of sugar."

3. Which fruits and vegetables are bad for your pet?

In the same way that  chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs, some fruits and vegetables are too.

"Onions, garlic, wild mushrooms, avocado, and rhubarb are all poisonous to pets, and corn is also a common allergen," says Nold. "You should also avoid feeding grapes and raisins to your pet, as they can cause kidney damage."

4. Does my pet have an allergy to a certain fruit or vegetable?

"You should always gradually introduce any new foods to your pet’s diet to avoid any stomach upsets," says Nold. "Feed your pet small amounts of the fruit or vegetable to begin with, and always introduce one type of fruit or vegetable at a time so if your pet does have an adverse reaction, it will be easier for you to determine the cause."

According to Nold, certain allergens are more common for dogs and cats than others. Corn may be an allergen, for example, but it is a lot less common then others (including beef, dairy, wheat, chicken and egg in dogs).  Beef, dairy and fish are considered the most common food allergens in cats.

Symptoms of a food allergy include sickness, diarrhea, and skin problems, however your veterinarian will be able to confirm for sure if your pet has an allergy and can advise on the best course of action.

5. Are dogs and cats omnivores?

Dogs are often considered carnivores, but the reality is that they are more omnivorous (or rather, they have the capability to be omnivores). According to Nold, dogs' digestive systems can support a mixed diet from both animal protein and plant-based sources, though their main intake should still be animal protein. While it's always important to rule out any health conditions with your veterinarian that could require certain dietary restrictions, many dogs can thrive on meals that include meat as well as certain vegetables and occasional fruits.

For cat owners, keep in mind that they are obligate carnivores. This means that cats require a diet that primarily consists of animal-based proteins. While many of them have a tendency to nibble on plants and can get a small level of nutrition from certain fruits and vegetables, their bodies are just not equipped to digest plant matter efficiently. Cats should therefore only be given safe produce items in very small quantities, without any reduction of their regular carnivorous diet.

Fruits generally safe for dogs and cats

Steer clear of:  Cherries are toxic to cats and dogs, and grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage. Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruit as well as persimmons can cause an upset stomach.

Take a look at this list when asking yourself if dogs and cats and eat fruits and vegetables — all the following fruits are safe for your dog or cat to eat. In general, fruits are higher in sugar than vegetables, and thus should be limited in overweight pets. However, be sure to wash all fruits and remove rinds, inedible skins, seeds, and pits before feeding to pets.

Apple

Apples are high in fiber and low in fat, making them an ideal snack for overweight or senior pets who may have a lower metabolism. They're also packed with vitamins A and C which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and tissue. Feed your pet apples in moderation and remove the core and seeds first, as they contain cyanide.

Apricot

The fleshy fruit of apricots can make a good treat for cats and dogs. They are full of potassium and beta-carotene which can help fight against cancer. Just be sure your pet doesn’t eat the poisonous pit, stem, or leaves.

Banana

Bananas are a great source of potassium which can support heart and kidney functions. Bananas are high in carbohydrates and the high sugar content in bananas mean that they should be given to dogs sparingly. When sliced into reasonable sizes this can make a good occasional treat.

Blueberries

Similar to their benefits in humans, blueberries can help prevent cell and tissue damage because of their antioxidant properties. In addition to being a good source of fiber and Vitamin C, blueberries may lessen the chances of your pet developing urinary tract infections and have been shown to improve night vision.

Cantaloupe

It’s important to remove the skin and seeds and cut the cantaloupe into manageable sized wedges before feeding to cats and dogs. Also, don’t let them lick the outside skin, which may carry harmful bacteria. With a host of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and C, cantaloupe may help alleviate inflammatory issues in pets.

Cranberries

If you’re looking to help fight urinary tract infections in cats and dogs, cranberries may be an option. Vitamin C, fiber, and manganese make cranberries an attractive snack for cats and dogs, provided they can handle the tartness. Raw, cooked, or dried cranberries are acceptable treats, but avoid cranberry sauce and cranberry juice, which are too high in sugar and will upset your pets’ stomach.

Mango

Mangoes are a vitamin-packed treat for cats and dogs. As with all pitted fruits, be sure to remove the hard middle pit which contains poisonous amounts of cyanide. Giving small pieces of mango with the skin removed will allow for easier digestion and as a result lessen the chances that fiber from the fruit will upset your pets’ stomach and digestive tract.

Orange

Cats may not be interested in eating oranges, but dogs have been known to enjoy this sweet treat. The nutrients and Vitamin C can help their immune system and flush toxins out of the body. However, the seeds, peel, leaves, or stem of the orange contain oils that are poisonous, so make sure you only feed pets the fleshy part of the fruit.

Pear

Pears are full of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, and make a great snack for cats and dogs when served in moderation. As with apples and oranges, pear seeds contain traces of cyanide and should be removed before feeding to your pet. Give cats or dogs small slices of pear to help promote anti-cancer properties.

Pineapple

From folate to zinc, pineapple is bursting with vitamins and minerals that can help your cat or dog’s digestion and immune system. Like any other sugary fruit, it is best to feed pineapple to pets in small quantities. The spikey skin and hard core should be removed before giving to a pet to prevent choking hazards.

Raspberries

Raspberries are low in sugar and contain lots of fiber and vitamin C. Their anti-inflammatory properties make them great for older pets. However, they should be given in moderation as they contain very small amounts of naturally occurring sweetener called xylitol. In large amounts, such as is found in xylitol containing gum, this sweetener can be fatal to dogs and cats.

Strawberries

Fresh or frozen strawberries can help pets stay healthy whether they eat them raw or pureed over their normal pet food. The nutrients in strawberries help strengthen the immune system and slow issues related to aging.

Watermelon

Watermelon is almost 92% water, so it is great for keeping your pet hydrated. It also contains Vitamins A, C, and B-6, as well as potassium which helps maintain healthy muscle and nerve function.

What vegetables can dogs and cats eat?

Steer clear of:  Never feed your pet onions or garlic as they are toxic in all forms: cooked, raw, and even onion powder. These cause damage to the red blood cells, ultimately causing them to burst. Rhubarb and wild mushrooms also contain toxins. We suggest avoiding corn as it is a common allergen among pets.

The following vegetables are suitable for your dog or cat to eat. Consider steaming or boiling cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as they are much easier to digest when cooked. Cats may need the vegetables to be pureed, or for convenience can be fed a vegetable baby food without onions or garlic.

Asparagus

Asparagus is high in fiber, has a lot of vitamins, and is an excellent source of potassium. Dogs can be at risk of choking on an asparagus stalk, so they should receive bite-sized pieces that have been softened through cooking to allow easier digestion before partaking in the nutritious benefits. If cats express interest in eating asparagus, there’s no harm in also giving them a small piece.

Bell Peppers (Red, Green, Orange, Yellow)

All bell pepper varieties provide beta carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. Make sure to cut peppers up into manageable sized pieces and feed with the stem removed to help boost immune function.

Broccoli

Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamin C, but too much can cause stomach irritation in some dogs. Small pieces of broccoli without the large stems can make a good treat for dogs, and cats tempted to chew on broccoli florets are welcome to indulge in small bits.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K but many cats and dogs aren’t interested in eating them. However, if they want a small bit of the nutritious green, make sure they are cooked soft and small enough for a pet to swallow without choking.

Cabbage

Eating cabbage can aid in digestion, fight cancer, and improve skin and fur health for cats and dogs. Shredding the cabbage over food is a good way to slowly introduce it into their diets, but give in moderation to avoid harmful effects to your dog’s thyroid gland. It is best to cook the cabbage before feeding to allow for easier digestion.

Carrots

Carrots are low in calories, high in fiber, and crunching on them is great for your pet's teeth. They also contain beta-carotene, which helps maintain healthy skin and eye health.

Cauliflower

Cooked or raw, cauliflower is a treat you can share. The vitamins and antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and help older pets with arthritis. Its fiber can support digestive health, but too much may lead to an upset stomach. Serve plain and in small bites without the stem and leaves.

Celery

Celery is low in calories and is packed full of nutrients and antioxidants. It also has high water content that has been shown to help freshen your pet's breath.

Cucumber

Aside from vitamins K, C, and magnesium, cucumbers contain very little carbohydrates or fats, making them a treat for overweight pets. Cucumber can also help cats and dogs lower blood pressure, but also importantly it can help freshen their breath.

Green Beans

Green beans are a good source of protein and iron for cats and dogs. Fresh, frozen, or canned, sodium-free green beans can make a healthy snack that helps pets slim down.

Lettuce

Lettuce helps add water and fiber to a pet’s diet which helps keep them hydrated and full. The leaf should be cut into very thin slices to make it easy to eat, and can be placed on top of their usual food.

Peas

Peas offer vitamin B, thiamin, and potassium that can boost energy levels and improve bone health in pets. Frozen, thawed, steamed, or mashed, peas can make a nice snack or compliment to a cat or dog’s normal diet.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a great health food to give your pets. It is full of fiber and may help pets suffering from both constipation and diarrhea. Additionally, pumpkin is rich in vitamins and minerals, and is a great source of water. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

Spinach

For pets or for people, spinach is widely regarded as a super food for containing almost every vitamin and mineral. It may help in all area of your pet’s health. Avoid giving in large amounts or if they have kidney disease, as it can be harmful or exasperate problems with their kidneys.

Sweet Potato

Similar to the benefits of pumpkin, sweet potato offers dogs and cats fiber, water, and nutrients that aid with digestive problems. Sweet potato offers even more nutritional value, containing vitamins, thiamine, niacin, and even copper. Because of these nutrients, sweet potatoes are much more beneficial to pets than regular white potatoes.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a good source of vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. Shredding it on top of their regular food is a good way to incorporate it into their diet and may help protect them from infections, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.