My cat came close to me one day as I was roaming around my kitchen, tilting her tail as if she was looking for food, and when I invaded my refrigerator, there was nothing left but broccoli!
This made me wonder can cats eat broccoli? Can I serve some broccoli to my cats to eat, will it be safe? And, what happens if she eats it.
Well, do you also have come across which situation? If yes, then the answer is yes, cats can eat cooked broccoli it is not dangerous for them. It is loaded with high fibers, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. But, remember only in small quantities!
Can Cats Have Broccoli?
The short answer is yes, cats of all ages can safely eat broccoli in small amounts, and they will enjoy eating it. In fact, It’s non-toxic, so it won’t harm them to have a bit in their food, but you shouldn’t give too much as it’s not an essential part of their diet. Plus, too much of this filler may actually stop them from eating enough of the animal-based protein.
It will provide a variety of nutritional benefits for your cat. It is a good source of antioxidants that also help to curb cancer, packed with fibers that aid to ease feline digestive issues. The best part is that it definitely gratifies your cat’s urge to chum plants and thus saves your houseplants.
But, the thumb rule is that the quantity should always be small you can use it as snacks but do not use it as the main diet this is because felines are carnivores and their body require the main portion from meat and animals. So, you add simply add a few chunks of broccoli to your regular cat food.
This was all about cats but what about kittens? Can these young babies eat broccoli? Are you interested if yes then let’s check that out now!
Can Kitten Eat Broccoli?
You can include broccoli in your kitten’s diet as well; it is safe for them. However, remember that moderation is vital.
You can use it as an occasional treat. It is rich in antioxidants therefore it is a healthy treat for your kittens and cats.
When kittens will eat broccoli, their body will receive vitamin K and calcium, which is great for making their bone stronger during the crucial developing years.
It also includes zinc and phosphorus and vitamin A and vitamin C. Plus it is loaded with fiber which means your kitten will not face any digestive issues.
Is There Any Health Benefit!
Yes, there are many health benefits of feeding your cat broccoli. As it includes antioxidants, which reduce inflammation, help to keep their immune game stronger. It aids in the maintenance of health by decreasing the cellular molecules’ damaging oxidative process.
The protein inside broccoli help to be active and healthy. It is also loaded with fiber that helps to curb constipation on felines. Also, it has magnesium, potassium, and selenium.
Because broccoli helps to limit free radicals from moving around inside your cat’s body, it may assist to prevent feline cancer. It also has a good content of calcium and vitamin C keeps her teeth and bone stronger and healthier.
If your cat has an upset stomach you can give a small amount of broccoli as it has good roughage.
| Health benefits |
|---|
| Keeps immune system stronger |
| Keep calorie count low |
| Keeps kitty active |
| Prevents cancer |
| Curbs constipation |
| Calms the stomach pain |
| Helps her teeth and bones to stay stronger |
Also Read: Is Bell Pepper Safe For Cats
Side Effects of Feeding Broccoli to a Cat!
Even though ASPCA has included broccoli human food in the safe category that doesn’t mean you can solely feed that only to your cat.
Despite that, it has all major vitamins, minerals, and all-natural nutrients it is vital to know that yes cats can cat broccoli but in moderation because it can lead to health problems like diarrhea and stomach problems.
This is because cats are obligate carnivores animals they are entirely reliant on animal protein, and feeding them broccoli could throw their diet off balance.
Instead of fruits and vegetables, their primary diet should consist of flesh and meat. You can, however, feed them only in little amounts.
Relatable reference: Are vegetables safe for cats?
Safe Ways of Feeding Broccoli to Your Cat!
Till now, you know can cats eat broccoli but do you know what is the safe way of feeding?
You can give them raw, but I would advise against it because eating raw broccoli to cats increases the likelihood of their spitting up the meal.
This is due to the fact that their bodies are designed to handle animal protein, making broccoli difficult to digest. As a result, she will not enjoy eating it.
So, you can simply cut these green vegetable flowers into tiny pieces and take off the stem portion. Then boil them in water till it softens and let them cool down.
Also, make sure not to add any additional seasoning or salt because it is extremely harmful compounds for them.
I hope you follow all the precautions before feeding them!
Well, That’s a Wrap!
So, at last, the answer to the question “can cats eat broccoli?“ is obviously yes it is safe for cats, However, keep in mind is key.
When you feed your pet cat broccoli in a moderate amount it will not harm her because broccoli and cats can not go wrong.
Broccoli is good, if you feed your cat some plain boiled or steamed chunks of broccoli it will offer her antioxidants, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorous.
It will help them to have an easy bowel moment, keep their teeth and bones strong. But, it should not be the main source as their body doesn’t require veggies and fruits.
Also Read: Cats Eat Brussels Sprouts
References
- Which Fruits Can Cats Eat? — PetMD
- Is Raw Cat Food Good for Cats? — PetMD
- 6 Best Vegetables for Cats — Chewy