Can dogs or cats eat cucumbers?

15 June 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 cucumbers?

Looking for a refreshing treat for your dog? Good news: cucumbers are a safe food to feed your dog. Not only are they low in calories and high in nutrients such as vitamin K and potassium, but they can also help keep dogs hydrated due to their high water content.

Just wash the cucumber well before serving, and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces so that it's not a choking hazard and doesn't cause digestive upset.

You should always discuss any dietary changes with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pup's diet, especially if you have any questions or concerns. If your dog ever requires veterinary care as a result of eating any unsafe foods, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat cucumbers?

Cucumbers are safe for cats to eat in moderation. They're low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and magnesium.

However, it's important not to overdo it with cucumbers or any other non-meat food item when feeding your cat. While they may enjoy the occasional slice of cucumber or carrot as a treat, too much can lead to an upset stomach or even diarrhoea. And as obligate carnivores, cats don't possess the necessary enzymes to absorb too many nutrients from plant products.

You should always discuss any dietary changes with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your cat's diet, especially if you have any questions or concerns. If your cat ever requires veterinary care as a result of 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