The Gifts of the Kitchen Garden: These Could Also Be Enjoyable for Cats

We also prefer to eat fresh, crunchy vegetables from the garden raw, quickly rinsed under the outdoor tap. If your cat often joins you when you harvest these vegetables or pick some for lunch, you may have wondered which of them could also be safe to offer to your pet.

Before we introduce the list of vegetables, it is important to highlight that cats are obligate carnivores, so they can obtain all the essential nutrients they need from meat alone. Simply put, they do not need vegetables, but for variety and excitement, there are some that can be safely offered to them. Here are the vegetables that cats can also eat.

Vegetables are just treats for cats

As predators, our feline friends do not metabolize or digest vegetables well, so they should only be given in small amounts and infrequently. After offering any of the vegetables listed below, make sure to observe your cat for any signs of digestive or gastrointestinal issues. Individual sensitivities can occur even though the vegetables listed here are generally considered safe.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your veterinarian. They know your pet and its medical history and can advise whether any of the following vegetables might be suitable.

1.) Asparagus

Asparagus has a high alkaline content, which can alter the pH value and smell of both human and cat urine. Over time, it may cause crystal formation, leading to urinary tract blockages. While asparagus is a vegetable that can be safely given, it should be offered only occasionally and in small amounts if your cat likes it. Break off the woody parts of the asparagus, cook it, and give it to your cat in small pieces, either on its own or mixed with their food.

2.) Beetroot

Beetroot contains a high amount of oxalates, which can lead to bladder stones in some pets. If you know your cat is prone to this, do not give them beetroot! This vegetable also stimulates stomach acid production, so it should be avoided in cats with digestive issues. Serve it cooked, peeled, and in small pieces. Don’t be surprised if you find red-colored poop in the litter box the next day.

3.) Brussels Sprouts

This vegetable, which is often disliked by school children, can be safely given to cats when cooked and cut into small pieces.

4.) Cabbage

Although cabbage aids digestion and improves skin and fur health, it should only be given in moderation and in small amounts to avoid overburdening the cat’s thyroid. The vegetable contains thiocyanate, which can suppress the thyroid if fed in large quantities over a long period. Always serve it cooked and in small pieces.

5.) Celery

When given in small amounts and cooked, celery does not cause irritation and can provide vitamins and minerals to pets. However, in excessive amounts, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gas, so be cautious. An added benefit of celery is that it can freshen your pet’s breath.

6.) Lettuce

Do not give your cat iceberg lettuce, as it can cause diarrhea! However, finely chopped regular lettuce can enhance wet food in small amounts.

7.) Potato

Only give potatoes cooked, cut into small pieces, or mashed in small amounts. Never feed raw or skin-on potatoes to your cat! Avoid giving it to pets with diabetes, as it can significantly raise blood sugar levels.

8.) Radish

Peel and chop it into very small pieces, as larger pieces can pose a choking hazard and potentially cause intestinal blockage. Don’t be surprised if your cat becomes a bit gassy after eating radish. Although not toxic, some cats may experience abdominal discomfort.

9.) Parsnip, turnip

When cooked, they are easier to digest but can also be given raw in very small pieces without the skin. Avoid giving them to cats with thyroid problems, as they can inhibit the body’s iodine absorption.

+1. Mushroom

While mushrooms are not vegetables, they fit best into this list. Only give store-bought mushrooms, and make sure they are fresh, not canned, jarred, or dried. Serve them cooked, chopped into small pieces, and in very small amounts at a time. Some pets may be sensitive to mushrooms, so observe your cat after offering them.

Vegetables That Are Toxic to Cats

All types of onions, including red, purple, shallots, chives, leeks, garlic, and others, contain compounds called diallyl disulfide and thiosulfate, which are toxic to both cats and dogs, with cats being more sensitive. They can cause gastrointestinal issues, red blood cell damage, kidney damage, and anemia.

Eggplant is also toxic to cats! As a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), it contains glycoalkaloids, which can cause illness and symptoms of poisoning when ingested in large amounts. Additionally, eggplant contains oxalates, which can lead to kidney problems in both dogs and cats.

While kale is not inherently toxic in small amounts, it contains significant levels of calcium oxalate, which can cause kidney and bladder stones, as well as isothiocyanates that may irritate the stomach. If this plant constitutes more than 10% of a cat’s diet, it may become toxic. Therefore, we recommend not feeding any form of kale to your cat.