We know that we should be eating fruit and vegetables daily for optimal wellbeing. Adding them to your pet’s diet, whether it’s part of their meals or as snacks, can have health benefits for them, too. Some, however, should be avoided because they aren’t safe for animals to consume, for various reasons.
Here is a list of fresh produce you can, and cannot, feed your dogs and cats to boost their vitamins, minerals, and overall nutrition.
Your pets CAN eat…
- Carrots are known to promote healthy vision and keep blood sugar balanced in humans and animals.
- Broccoli is a great source of calcium and is also high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
- Bananas are a tasty sweet treat for your pets that are nutrient-dense and can help to support digestion.
- Pumpkin (and butternut) are a source of healthy carbs and can help to settle an upset stomach.
- Apples are popular as they’re a great source of fibre and can help to reduce inflammation.
- Sweet potatoes are root vegetables that contain several nutrients, such as vitamins A and C.
- Blueberries are good as they are loaded with antioxidants which lower the risk of many diseases.
- Cucumbers are mostly made up of water – 96%, in fact – which helps to keep your pet hydrated.
- Spinach is a leafy green that humans and animals can both benefit from as it is a source of iron.
- Watermelon is the ultimate summer treat for pets and contains water that aids in hydration.
- Peas are not only a great source of vitamins but also zinc, which works to improve immunity.
- Mangoes not only contain necessary fibre but can also boost the health of your pet’s skin and fur.
Your pets CAN’T eat…
- Grapes can be toxic as animals can’t metabolise the tannins and flavonoids, causing kidney issues.
- Avocado is rich and oily and, when eaten by animals, can lead to diarrhoea and vomiting.
- Mushrooms are a fungus and animals don’t have the enzymes to break them down to digest them.
- Onions have a compound in them that can break down red blood cells and cause anaemia.
- Rhubarb should be kept away from pets because the leaves of this plant contain poisonous chemicals.
- Stone fruit is safe if the pips are removed, but these pips contain cyanide which can be harmful.
