Can dogs or cats eat asparagus?

26 April 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat asparagus?

Yes, it's safe to feed your dog asparagus, although they've probably never shown much interest in it.

One benefit of feeding your dog cooked asparagus is that it contains antioxidants that help to boost their immune system and improve overall health. Plus, high levels of fibre can aid digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.

Just remember: everything in moderation! Too much fibre can cause problems for your dog. Start with just a few spears cooked until soft (steaming is best).

Before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first. If your dog eats asparagus (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating any unsafe foods, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat asparagus?

Is your cat begging for asparagus? Strange, but the good news is they can have a tiny bit.

Asparagus is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, such as fibre, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. If you want to add some variety to your cat's food or treat them with something healthy from time to time, feeding them asparagus in moderation can be a good idea.

When feeding your cat asparagus for the first time, start with just a few spears cooked until soft (steaming is best). Avoid giving raw or undercooked asparagus because it may be difficult for their digestive system to break down the fibrous parts properly.

Finally, just keep in mind that cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need to get most of their nutrients from meat-based foods. If you do feed them asparagus (or any other vegetables or fruits), you should only do so in moderation, and these foods shouldn't take the place of meat.

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet consult with your veterinarian first! If your cat eats asparagus (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating any unsafe foods, cat insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Information purposes only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet poison emergency protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the Animal Poison Line (01202 50 9000).

Food safety statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet