Can Cats Eat Broccoli?

Yes, cats can have a small amount of broccoli. 

Plain, cooked broccoli is the best way to go. Raw broccoli isn’t toxic, but cooked florets are usually easier for cats to chew and digest, and larger chunks can be hard to swallow. 

If you’d rather give your cats the benefits of veggies without worrying about what’s safe and what’s not, you can try these store-bought cat treats instead: 

Broccoli can offer a few small perks for cats, but it’s still not a food they need. Most cats are better off with something more protein-forward, like tuna, than a fibrous vegetable side dish. 

That said, a few possible benefits of broccoli include: 

• Fiber: Broccoli contains fiber, which may help with fullness and digestion in small amounts. 
• Water content: Broccoli has a high water content, which may be helpful for cats that don’t naturally drink much water throughout the day. While it’s not a replacement for proper hydration, foods with extra moisture can still contribute a little to overall fluid intake. 
• Antioxidants: Broccoli contains antioxidants which help protect cells from everyday stress and damage. This may support healthy aging and immune function in cats over time. 
• Low sugar and fat: Plain broccoli is naturally low in sugar and fat, so it’s a better snack choice than something richer, like bacon. 

Yes, broccoli can be bad for cats if it’s prepared incorrectly, or they eat too much of it. 

Here are some potential downsides for cats: 

• Too much fiber: While some fiber can be a good thing, too much can lead to gas, vomiting, diarrhea, or general stomach upset. Cats with a history of digestive trouble may be especially sensitive to cruciferous vegetables, even in small amounts. 
• Large pieces: Big florets and chunks of stalk are tough and harder for cats to chew. These parts may become a choking hazard or obstruction risk. 
• Butter and seasoning: Rich toppings and seasonings can make broccoli much harder on your cat’s stomach. Ingredients like garlic and onions are especially important to avoid because they’re toxic to cats. 

All treats, including broccoli, should make up no more than 10% of a cat’s daily diet. The rest should come from a balanced cat food. 

For most healthy adult cats, one or two bite-size pieces—about the size of your thumb (cut into smaller pieces)—once or twice a week is plenty.  

While broccoli isn’t toxic, there are a few things you should do to make sure it’s safe for your cat. If you want to share a little broccoli: 

• Steam, bake, or boil it plain. 
• Let it cool completely before serving. 
• Cut it into small, bite-size pieces. 
• Skip butter, oil, cheese, salt, and seasonings. 
• Offer only a piece or two. 

Eating too much broccoli usually isn’t an emergency. It’s most likely that your cat will have some stomach upset that will eventually resolve on its own. 

You may notice the following: 

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Gas 
• Low appetite 
• Belly discomfort 

Call your veterinarian if symptoms don’t go away within 24 hours or: 

• Your cat ate broccoli cooked with garlic, onions, or heavy seasoning. 
• Your cat swallowed a large piece of broccoli and seems like they’re gagging. If your cat is struggling to breathe, go to the emergency vet immediately. 
• Your cat keeps vomiting or won’t eat. 
• Your cat seems unusually tired or uncomfortable. 

If you can’t reach your vet and you’re concerned that your cat ate something toxic, you can also call the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for expert advice on what to do next. 

Can cats eat cooked broccoli? 

Yes, cats can eat cooked broccoli if it’s plain and cut into small pieces. Cooked broccoli is easier for cats to chew and digest than raw broccoli. 

Can cats eat raw broccoli? 

Cats can eat raw broccoli, but it’s not the easiest form for them to handle. Raw florets are tough to chew, so plain, cooked broccoli is usually the safer option. 

Is broccoli good for cats? 

Broccoli does have some small benefits for cats. It offers fiber and antioxidants and may help with hydration. That said, cats get more useful nutrition from meat-based foods than vegetables. 

Can kittens eat broccoli? 

Kittens should stick with high-quality kitten food until they’re at least 1 year old. Growing kitties have specific nutritional needs, and it’s better not to offer them treats, even vegetables. 

What other veggies can cats eat? 

Other vegetables safe for cats include carrots, celery, green beans, sweet potatoes, and zucchini.