Fruits & veggies are a great, low-calorie substitute for pet treats, especially when you’re trying to start a weight loss plan. Whether your pet is participating in our 2013 Weight Loss Contest or you’re just looking for natural alternatives to processed treats, this list is a great place to get started!

 

Please gradually introduce small portions of fruits and vegetables to your pet’s diet. Fast changes may cause stomach upset! Additionally, some fruits and veggies might work better for your pet than others. Start with one new item at a time!

Fruit

Be sure to wash all fruits and remove seeds and pits before feeding to pets.

  • Apple
  • Banana
  • Blueberries
  • Cantaloupe
  • Pear
  • Raspberries
  • Strawberries

Steer clear of: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage for cats and dogs, so avoid feeding these entirely. Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruit as well as persimmons can cause upset stomach.

Vegetables

Consider steaming or boiling cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, as they are much easier to digest when they are cooked.

  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Cucumber
  • Green beans
  • Lettuce
  • Pumpkin
  • Spinach

Steer clear of: Never feed your pet onions or garlic as they are toxic in all forms: cooked, raw, and even onion powder. These cause damage to the red blood cells, ultimately causing them to burst. Rhubarb and wild mushrooms also contain toxins. We suggest avoiding corn as it is a common allergen among pets.