The Best Fruits & Veggies For Your Dogs and Cats

Sharing your meals with your dogs and cats is a natural impulse. Those pleading eyes and excited tail wags can be hard to resist. But while some human foods are perfectly safe for cats ad dog, others can be toxic and should be avoided. 

So, how can you safely add some fresh variety to your pet's diet?

The good news is, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables that your pet can enjoy! These healthy snacks can boost their vitamin intake, aid digestion, and provide a fun and refreshing treat. And they are low in calories as opposed to other food and treats!

Canine Cuisine: Fruits and Veggies for Dogs

Dogs are omnivores, meaning their diet can include both plant and animal-based foods. Here's a rundown of some of the best fruits and veggies to add to your dog's bowl:

Crunchy Vegetable Classics:

Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, carrots are a low-calorie, fiber-rich option that's great for dental health. Slice them into sticks for a fun and crunchy chew toy.

Celery: This refreshing veggie is full of vitamins A, B, and C, and it might even help freshen your dog's breath! Cut them into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards.

Green Beans: A good source of fiber and essential vitamins, green beans are a healthy and low-calorie treat. Steam or boil them before offering them to your dog.

The Berry Best for Your Pups

Blueberries: These antioxidant powerhouses are a great source of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Just be sure to offer them in moderation, as too much fruit sugar can cause digestive upset.

Strawberries: Another antioxidant-rich option, strawberries are a delicious and refreshing treat for your pup. Cut them into small pieces to avoid choking.

Melony Madness:

Watermelon: This hydrating fruit is perfect for hot summer days. Just be sure to remove the seeds and rind, which can cause digestive problems.

Other Safe Fruit & Vegetable Options for your dog:

Apples: Sliced and with the core removed, apples are a good source of fiber and Vitamin C.

Bananas: A natural source of potassium, bananas are a great occasional treat. However, due to their high sugar content, they should be offered in moderation.

Cantaloupe: Full of Vitamin A and fiber, cantaloupe is a refreshing summer treat. Just remove the rind and seeds before offering it to your dog.

Peas: Shelled peas are a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins.

Important Tips for Introducing new food to your dogs:

· Always introduce new foods gradually. Start with a small amount and monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset.

· Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before offering them to your dog.

· Cut fruits and vegetables into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards.

· Remove pits, seeds, and rinds, as these can be toxic or cause digestive problems.

· Fruits should only make up a small portion (around 10%) of your dog's overall diet.

· Consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any new food, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.

Feline Feasts: Fruits and Veggies for Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should primarily consist of animal protein. However, some feline friends might enjoy the occasional taste of a fruit or vegetable. Here are a few safe options:

Green Beans: Just like for dogs, green beans are a good source of fiber and essential vitamins for cats.

Pumpkins: Pureed pumpkin can be a helpful digestive aid for cats experiencing constipation. Look for canned pumpkin specifically labeled for pets, as pie filling can contain added sugar and spices that are harmful to cats.

Strawberries: In small quantities, strawberries can be a sweet treat for your feline friend.

Important Tips for Cats:

· Introduce new foods very gradually and in very small amounts, as cats have sensitive digestive systems.

· The majority of your cat's diet should be high-quality cat food. Fruits and vegetables should only be offered as an occasional treat.

· Consult your veterinarian before giving your cat any new food, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.

Fruits and Veggies to Avoid for Cats & Dog:

Avocados: The flesh and pit of avocados contain persin, a toxin that can be fatal to pets.

Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats.

Onions, Garlic, and Leeks: These members of the Allium family contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in pets.

Mushrooms: Many wild mushrooms are poisonous, and even some cultivated mushrooms can be harmful to pets. Never give your pet a mushroom unless you are 100% certain it's safe for consumption.

Citrus Fruits: Lemons, limes, and grapefruit can cause upset stomachs in pets.

Pitted Fruits: The pits of peaches, plums, nectarines, and cherries contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic in high doses. It's best to avoid giving your pet these fruits altogether, or to remove the pits completely.

Rhubarb: The leaves of rhubarb plants contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic to pets.

Tomatoes: Unripe tomatoes and tomato plants contain solanine, which can cause digestive problems in pets.

Potatoes: Green potatoes contain solanine, which can be toxic to pets. Be sure to only offer your pet ripe, peeled potatoes.

Macadamia Nuts: These nuts can cause tremors, vomiting, and weakness in dogs.

Remember: When in doubt, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving your pet any unknown food. Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions about whether a particular fruit or vegetable is safe for your pet.