The Best Vegetables to Share with Your Pets (Hunter-Approved!)

Did you know that your little meat eaters may like some vegetation in their diet?

If you've ever had a pet who comes running at the sound of a crinkling produce bag, you're not alone. Hunter—who just turned 18 & still acts like a kitten—was raised with guinea pigs & has never lost his love for the veg. While not all pets have a taste for greens, many do & offering the right vegetables can be a fun and healthy way to bond.

Here’s a list of pet-safe, nutrient-rich vegetables that can be shared with cats, rabbits, guinea pigs & even some dogs—Hunter-approved, of course!

1. Romaine Lettuce

Crunchy & hydrating, romaine is a favorite for small animals like rabbits & guinea pigs. In moderation, some cats & dogs enjoy it too. Just skip iceberg lettuce—it's low in nutrients.

Hunter’s verdict: Will nibble, then probably throw it up later.

2. Bell Peppers (Any Colour)

Packed with vitamin C, bell peppers are a hit with rodents & safe for most pets in small amounts. Stick with raw, seedless slices.

Bonus tip: Red ones are the sweetest & usually the favorite!

3. Carrots & Carrot Tops

Carrots are sweet & crunchy, but high in sugar—so feed them in moderation. The leafy tops are actually healthier & just as tasty for small pets.

Hunter’s move: Steals carrots from the boarders plate. Caramel loves them too!!

4. Cucumbers

Low-calorie & hydrating, cucumbers are a refreshing treat for all kinds of pets. Slice thinly for cats or small animals.

Pro tip: Peel if your pet has a sensitive stomach.

5. Zucchini

Gentle on tummies & full of moisture, zucchini is a great option—especially for pets new to fresh foods.

Haven't tried these our selves, as the texture weirds me out, eww...

6. Spinach (Occasionally)

Spinach is nutrient-dense, but high in oxalates, so it’s best given sparingly—especially for guinea pigs & rabbits.

Pet parent rule: Rotate with safer greens like kale, dill, or parsley.

7. Green Beans

Dogs especially love crunchy green beans, but they’re also safe for cats & small pets. Serve raw or lightly steamed with no seasoning.

8. Celery & Celery Tops

Caramels favourite!!

Celery & celery tops can be a healthy & safe occasional treat for pets, but feed them moderation. They're high in moisture & can be great for hydration.

9. Sweet potato

Cats can eat sweet potatoes, who knew?

But only in moderation & only if they are cooked & plain. Sweet potatoes can be a healthy addition to a cat's diet in small amounts, and some cats may find them a helpful remedy for constipation.

10. Cat grass & Catnip (obviously)

Cat grass is a grass mixture that is grown from seeds, such as wheat, barley, oats, or rye. Not to be confused with the grass outdoors, which has the potential to contain toxic pesticides. Cat grass is grown indoors specifically for household pets.

One long-standing myth is that pets only eat grass when they are sick, but not true. In addition to providing enjoyment, cat grass benefits your kitty's life by helping their digestive system.

You can grown your own inside from seed or alot of garden centres have it growing for sale at this time of the year.

CatNip!

Catnip is a member of the mint family & can be a vigorous grower in Ontario. You can buy seeds or plants & plant indoors or out. It's non invasive in mosy areas but can spread like crazy. Cats love it fresh or dried!

Vegetables to Avoid

Not all veggies are safe! Avoid onions, garlic, leeks, mushrooms, potatoes, and rhubarb—these can be toxic to pets.

Final Tips:

Always wash vegetables thoroughly.

Introduce new foods slowly & watch for signs of digestive upset.

Portion sizes matter—what’s a nibble for a guinea pig is a feast for a cat.

Sharing veg with your pets is a simple way to add variety & nutrition to their diet—and it’s a joy to see their reactions.

Got a veggie-loving pet? Let me know their favorites in the comments or tag us at @hoomanepetcare on social media!