Vegetables
Can dogs and cats eat spinach?
Short answer on spinach: safe only with care for both dogs and cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.
One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
Dogs and cats both have a caution verdict.
The label matches, but the two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line, named hazard, and signs to watch for your pet below.
- Bottom line differs
- Named hazard differs
- Signs to watch differs
Spinach safety for dogs
Small amounts of cooked spinach are generally fine for healthy dogs, but its oxalates can contribute to bladder or kidney stones in susceptible dogs if fed regularly or in large amounts.
Toxic principle: Oxalic acid (large or regular amounts)
Watch for
- GI irritation
- risk of bladder/kidney stones with regular large amounts, especially in susceptible dogs
Spinach safety for cats
Spinach is not toxic, but because cats have a higher rate of urinary and kidney issues, vets recommend feeding it only rarely, if at all, due to its oxalate content.
Toxic principle: Oxalic acid
Watch for
- risk of bladder/kidney stones with regular feeding, especially in cats with existing urinary issues
Questions owners ask about spinach
Can dogs eat spinach?
Small amounts of cooked spinach are generally fine for healthy dogs, but its oxalates can contribute to bladder or kidney stones in susceptible dogs if fed regularly or in large amounts.
Is spinach safe for every dog?
Not necessarily. Small amounts of cooked spinach are generally fine for healthy dogs, but its oxalates can contribute to bladder or kidney stones in susceptible dogs if fed regularly or in large amounts. Ask your veterinarian first if your dog has an existing health condition or you are unsure.
What symptoms should I watch for with spinach and dogs?
GI irritation, risk of bladder/kidney stones with regular large amounts, especially in susceptible dogs. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Can cats eat spinach?
Spinach is not toxic, but because cats have a higher rate of urinary and kidney issues, vets recommend feeding it only rarely, if at all, due to its oxalate content.
Is spinach safe for every cat?
Not necessarily. Spinach is not toxic, but because cats have a higher rate of urinary and kidney issues, vets recommend feeding it only rarely, if at all, due to its oxalate content. Ask your veterinarian first if your cat has an existing health condition or you are unsure.
What symptoms should I watch for with spinach and cats?
risk of bladder/kidney stones with regular feeding, especially in cats with existing urinary issues. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.