10 x healthy fruits and vegetables for your dog or cat

Dogs and cats are primarily carnivores, but certain fruits and vegetables can be a fine, healthy addition. Below are 10 safe choices, with brief serving tips and when to be more careful. Always start with small portions and watch your pet's reaction.

Safe & healthy: 10 fruits and vegetables

1. Carrot

Rich in provitamin A (beta-carotene), crunchy and low in calories. Give raw or (lightly) cooked, in small pieces for safe absorption.

2. Cucumber

Contains a lot of moisture: nice and hydrating and virtually calorie-free. Remove peel if necessary and cut small.

3. Blueberries

Small antioxidant bombs with vitamin C. Ideal as a training snack-with moderation in cats.

4. Apple (without core and pips).

Source of fiber, vitamins A and C. Always remove seeds and core and cut into small pieces.

5. Green beans (cooked, unprocessed).

High in fiber and low in calories. Useful as a "bulking" snack for dogs that need to lose weight; in cats, very small portions.

6. Pumpkin (pure, without sugar/spice)

High in fiber and gentle on the tummy. Useful for fluctuating stools (both constipation and thin stools). Give puree or cubes, without additives.

7. Strawberry (in moderation)

Vitamin C and antioxidants, as well as natural sugars. Remove crown and cut small; especially in cats sparingly.

8. Sweet potato (boiled/steamed).

Source of fiber and beta-carotene. Always serve cooked and without seasoning or oil, in bite-sized pieces.

9. Banana (in moderation)

Potassium and B vitamins, but relatively high in sugar. Use as an occasional snack-small mashed or in mini pieces.

10. Watermelon (without seeds and skin).

Refreshing and moisturizing. Always remove seeds and peel and dice.

Serving and safety tips

• Start small: always introduce new foods slowly and observe reactions.
• Keeping Pure: Do not add salt, sugar, onions/garlic, oil or spices.
• Cutting: bite-sized pieces prevent choking (especially in small animals).
• Allergies: If itching, vomiting, diarrhea or swelling occurs, stop and consult with your veterinarian.

Looking for help during busy days for set feeding time or extra attention? Book a sweet cat sitter Who follows your routine.

What you better not gives (toxic/risk)

Grapes/raisins, avocado (especially pit and skin), onion/garlic/chives, chocolate/cocoa, xylitol (sweetener), alcohol, caffeine and spicy/seasoned vegetables. In doubt? Ask your veterinarian. [link to article on topic]

Read more tips for owners on the Petbnb Blog.