Can Cats Eat Carrots?

Yes, cats can eat carrots if you follow some guidelines. The safest way is to offer cooked, plain carrot cut into small, bite-sized pieces.  

Avoid raw carrots; large chunks; or seasoned, sautéed, or processed forms containing garlic, onion, or other potentially dangerous ingredients. 

Carrots aren’t essential to a cat’s diet, but they may provide some limited benefits when given as an occasional treat, such as: 

• Dietary fiber to support digestion 
• Beta-carotene to support the immune system and vision  
• Extra moisture (if steamed or boiled) to help with hydration  
• Novelty and enrichment from this different type of treat 

Carrots can be bad for cats if fed incorrectly or in excess. Here are some of the risks: 

• Digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, or gas)  
• Choking hazard (if fed raw or in large pieces)  
• Toxic or dangerous ingredients (garlic, onions, sauces, or seasonings) 

Treats of any kind, including “people food,” should generally make up no more than 10% of a cat’s daily calories.  

For an average 10-pound adult cat, a reasonable serving might be 1–2 teaspoons of cooked, diced carrot, offered a few times per week at most.  

When introducing carrots, always start with a small amount and monitor for digestive upset. 

You should always:  

• Steam or boil carrots until soft  
• Keep them plain and unseasoned   
• Cut them into tiny, diced pieces or puree them   

You should never:  

• Serve carrots raw   
• Season them with onion, garlic, or other harmful ingredients 
• Offer a whole or large piece of carrot   
• Feed your cat the carrot top or leaves  

You can serve cat-safe cooked carrots on their own, mix small bits or purees into your cat’s regular food, or add them to a homemade cat-safe treat recipe.  

To offer your cat a safe taste carrot, you can choose a cat food that includes it as an ingredient, such as Hill’s Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Seared Tuna & Carrot Medley Wet Cat Food, Wellness Complete Health Turkey Formula Grain-Free Natural Canned Cat Food, or Love, Nala Tuna Flaked with Carrot & Green Pea Recipe in Broth Adult Grain-Free Wet Cat Food.  

You can also try a yummy stew like Hartz Delectables Lickable Treat Stew Chicken & Veggies or a broth like PureBites Cat Broths Tuna & Vegetables Food Topping.  

If your cat eats too many carrots, watch for the following symptoms:  

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Gassiness 
• Lethargy 
• Decreased appetite 
• Bloating or abdominal discomfort 

If you notice any of these signs, call your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend monitoring at home or bringing your cat in for an exam.  

Can cats eat raw carrots? 

No. Raw carrots are hard, pose a choking risk, and can be difficult for cats to digest.  

Can cats eat the carrot top (greens)? 

No. The green, leafy tops may cause digestive upset.  

Is carrot like catnip for cats? 

No. Carrots do not contain the active compounds found in catnip. Any interest cats show is likely due to novelty, texture, or taste.  

Are pumpkin or carrots better for cats? 

Pumpkin is higher in fiber than carrots, so it may be more beneficial for cats with constipation or other kinds of digestive issues. It’s fine to give small amounts of either pumpkin or carrots to cats as a treat.  

Can kittens eat carrots? 

No. Young kittens have delicate digestive systems and special nutritional needs, so wait until they’re at least six months old to try carrots, and start with extremely small, well-cooked, pureed portions. Always check first with a veterinarian.