Can dogs or cats eat blueberries?
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Can dogs eat blueberries?
Blueberries are a safe and nutritious treat for dogs. They're rich in antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins C and K. They have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. They may even aid in maintaining healthy brain function in older dogs. It helps that they're tasty too!
Blueberries are low in calories, which makes them an ideal snack for dogs who need to manage their weight or those on a restricted diet. They also contain natural sugars, which provide energy without causing spikes in blood sugar levels like other sugary treats.
When feeding your dog blueberries, it's important to practice moderation. While they're beneficial when given occasionally as part of a balanced diet, overfeeding can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
As always, consult your veterinarian before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet. If your dog eats blueberries (or any other food) and then shows signs of illness like lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately. If your dog requires veterinary care because of something they've eaten, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.
Can dogs eat...
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Can cats eat blueberries?
Blueberries are safe for cats to enjoy in moderation. They contain high levels of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fibre, so cats can receive some health benefits from consuming them. At the same time, remember that meat-based foods are essential for a cat's overall diet.
Blueberries can boost the immune system by providing essential nutrients. However, as obligate carnivores, cats can't absorb many nutrients from plant-based foods. On the other hand, cats can derive some digestive benefits from blueberries thanks to their high fibre, which can help your cat maintain regular bowel movements.
Remember that while blueberries are considered safe for cats to eat in moderation, they should never replace your cat's primary meat-based diet.
It's always best practice to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your cat's diet — especially if they have any pre-existing health conditions or allergies. If your cat eats blueberries (or any other food) and then begins showing signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately. If your cat requires veterinary care related to a food they've eaten, cat insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.
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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
Could be given almost daily without harm
Not toxic, but should not be given regularly
Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet