Vegetable
Can cats eat broccoli?
A little, cooked. Steamed broccoli is safe for cats as an occasional nibble.
Why Isothiocyanates (irritant in large amounts)
By Maya Hart
If your cat ate some
- A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
- Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Signs to watch for
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
How much, how often
A small steamed floret.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Steam or boil without seasoning
- Cut stalks small — they can cause choking
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
Yes, a little. Broccoli is healthy in small amounts, but the florets contain isothiocyanates that can irritate the stomach in larger quantities.
How much: Keep it below 10% of daily food — a floret or two.
Can dogs eat broccoli?Cats In moderation
A little, cooked. Steamed broccoli is safe for cats as an occasional nibble.
How much: A small steamed floret.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat broccoli?
A little, cooked. Steamed broccoli is safe for cats as an occasional nibble.
How much broccoli can a cat have?
A small steamed floret.
What makes broccoli risky for cats?
Isothiocyanates (irritant in large amounts).
What are the signs to watch for in cats?
gas, vomiting, diarrhoea.
What should I do if my cat ate broccoli?
A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Is broccoli safe for dogs too?
Yes, a little. Broccoli is healthy in small amounts, but the florets contain isothiocyanates that can irritate the stomach in larger quantities.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
More foods for cats
Sweet potato
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Mushrooms
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation