Can dogs or cats eat edamame?

August 31, 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 edamame?

The good news for dog owners is that edamame beans (not the tough pod) are generally safe for dogs to eat in moderation!

Edamame beans are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain antioxidants that can help boost your dog's immune system.

Make sure you remove the pods first. They can pose a choking hazard or lead to digestive issues for your pup if swallowed whole. Additionally, avoid seasoned varieties, as those may have added salt or spices that could upset their stomach.

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first! If your dog eats edamame (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If your pet requires veterinary care due to something they ate, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat edamame?

Shelled edamame beans are safe for cats in moderation.

Just make sure you're only serving the beans and that they're boiled or steamed—those tough pods aren't easy for cats to nosh on, and they can be choking hazards!

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first! If your cat eats edamame (or any food) and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If your pet requires veterinary care due to something they ate, 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