Can dogs or cats eat broccoli?

4 May 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 broccoli?

Is your dog pining for some broccoli? The good news: It's safe for them to enjoy some! Broccoli contains high levels of fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium, which can aid in digestion and support bone health. Plus, broccoli contains phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce joint pain and inflammation in older dogs or those suffering from arthritis.

Just keep an eye on your pet when they're eating broccoli, just as you would if they were enjoying any other treat. (Steamed broccoli may be safer than raw broccoli, as it may pose less of a choking hazard).

As always, consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet! If your dog eats broccoli (or any other food) and then begins showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If your dog requires veterinary care related to a food they've eaten, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat broccoli?

Did your cat nosh on some broccoli? Don't worry — cats can eat broccoli safely! Just make sure to give it to them in moderation.

Broccoli contains fibre, potassium, vitamin C, folate, and glucosinolates, which can be beneficial for your cat's digestive system. These compounds can help maintain healthy gut flora and reduce inflammation in the intestine. But keep in mind that cats are obligate carnivores, which means they don't possess the necessary enzymes to absorb very many nutrients from vegetables. In other words, foods like broccoli are fine as an occasional treat, but should never displace the meat in your cat's diet.

It may be helpful to steam the broccoli first, as raw broccoli is tough and may pose a choking hazard.

As always, consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet! If your cat eats broccoli (or any other food) and then begins showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to 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.

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