Can dogs or cats eat carrots?

May 4, 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 carrots?

Yes, carrots are generally considered safe for dogs to eat. They're low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for a healthy snack or treat alternative. Carrots also contain essential vitamins such as vitamin A, which is important for maintaining eye health, and vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

And bonus: Feeding raw carrots to your dog can help improve their dental health. Hard vegetables like carrots can help scrape away plaque buildup on your dog's teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease and bad breath.

Keep in mind: 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 a certain food, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat carrots?

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that their diets should primarily consist of meat, but if you're dying to share your snack, it's technically safe for cats to eat small amounts of carrots!

Carrots are a great source of various vitamins and minerals; they contain vitamin A, which helps maintain good eye health, and Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. Carrots also have beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports skin and coat health. Just keep in mind that, unlike dogs, cats don't possess the necessary enzymes to absorb too many nutrients from vegetables.

When feeding your cat carrots, it is important to prepare the vegetable properly. Raw carrots can be difficult for cats to digest and may lead to upset stomach or digestive issues. Try steaming the carrots until they're soft before giving them to your cat as a treat.

Keep in mind: 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 a certain food, pet 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 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).

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