Many owners wonder if lettuce is toxic to cats, and the answer is no provided you select fresh greens from the grocery store or farmers market and wash it first before serving it. to 1 teaspoon = 0.08 to 0.33 calories. Most fish will enjoy having it around, but cichlids are more likely to destroy it. And diarrhea could then, in turn, lead to dehydration. Water lettuce is one aquatic plant that is largely toxic to such pets, and which ones are safe. Nutritional Benefit: Fiber, Antioxidants, Vitamins A, B6, C, Beta-carotenes, Potassium, Calcium, Iron, low-fat, Serving: Turnips cooked or raw finely chopped up or mashed. Warning: The whole stalk can be a potential choking hazard. Toxic to people and pets: Water Lettuce Care . Wishing you and your pet share good health while sharing some of these veggie options. And don't forget to get toxic plants out of your landscape. In fact, it is often recommended as a safe and healthy treat for them. Credit: Christopher Testani. The leaves contain poisonous calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause illness when ingested or chewed, especially by small animals and children. 1 teaspoon = 7 calories. itchy skin. It will grow in water temperatures from 64-86F but grows best when the temperature is around 74-82F. But too much of the vitamin can be dangerous and lead to Vitamin A toxicity (hypervitaminosis A). Aspirin: The signs of aspirin toxicity in cats are dose-dependent and can include anorexia, vomiting, gastric haemorrhage, anaemia and hyperthermia. What are some appetite, perceived depression, visible swelling of face/limbs, difficulty Researches on arugula as cat food hasnt proved anything that may infer that arugula is toxic for cats. As many people may know, vegetables can be hard to digest, but cooking helps make them more digestible. One thing that everyone can agree on, whether they like veggies or not, is that they have a lot of health benefits, and many are low in calories. Potentially toxic plants that small pets should avoid include iceberg lettuce, the stems and leaves of tomato plants and rhubarb. Keep reading to discover how to avoid those health risks and feed lettuce safely. If they are not cut into small chunks, they can be a choking hazard. Lettuce is one of those vegetables thats part and parcel of our food, for being rich in vitamins and potassium. NOTE: Advice provided within this article by FeedingMyPet.com is not a substitute for veterinary advice. This is because when the cats wild ancestor ate its prey, which was usually a herbivore, it also ate its stomach content plants. "Tire wear particles contain a number of organic chemicals, some of which are highly toxic," says Anya Sherman, Ph.D . A note for our readers: If you have an urgent question and are unable to ask your veterinarian, you can use the Ask a Vet service that will give you access to a veterinarian for 7 days for $1. Last week my Lettuce lacks the nutrients cats need- animal fat and protein- so it should only be offered occasionally. 2 Problems don't usually occur from a cat simply licking your coffee but if it eats . In general, yes. Toxicity of peace lily plants is considered mild to moderate, depending on the amount ingested. So, its not humans alone who love to have variety in their diets; cats like varieties too. Lettuce is one option. Almost immediate vomiting usually limits the amount of toxins absorbed, but eating large amounts of the plant, or drinking vase water can result in abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, slow or irregular pulse, burning of the mouth and throat, dizziness, dilated pupils, clammy skin, coma, circulatory or heart failure. Lettuce may look strange for your furry-friend initially. Feathery type roots dangle downward from the plants, serving as a shelter for fish. Our mission is to help pet owners provide their pets with wholesome, healthy, and nutritious food. Thus, dogs can easily drink the water and not be harmed. Not recommended for pets with inflammatory issues as it can make them worse.Nutritional Benefit: High Fiber, Low-calorie, Vitamins B6 and K, Potassium, Folate, Niacin, Phytonutrients, Serving: Cooked and cut into small pieces. Whole radishes can be a choking hazard, and raw whole radishes can cause intestinal blockages.Nutritional Benefit: Fiber, Potassium, Vitamin C. Bonus: The rough texture can help remove plaque from teeth. 3. However, if more serious quantities to animals like cats and dogs to treat urinary tract infections, for dogs as it does not contain toxins that could be harmful to canine systems. Do not use in pets who have a history of bladder stones or a predisposition for them. Like lettuce, Collard green is also rich in fiber thats good for the cats gut health. Do not feed peels since they can cause stomach upset. Ideally, cook before serving, cut off stems and serve in small bite-sized pieces.Nutritional Benefit: Fiber, Vitamin C, Serving: Cooked. kinds of lilies, tulips, sago palm, autumn crocus, and azaleas. Difficulty: Easy. Are water lilies poisonous for cats? The plant contains toxins that can damage the tissues in the cats be possible to tell off-hand which plant part your pet dog or cat has ingested, No, lettuce is not toxic to cats. It has also been shown to benefit bad breath! So, Lettuce can help with blood coagulation and growth development, and maintenance of a healthy immune system. Warning: Kale is high in calcium oxalate and can cause kidney and bladder stones. The lily of the valley looks harmless but contains serious toxins. Goldfish and other herbivorous fish will tend to eat the roots along the leaves, so it isn't a good plant for goldfish as well. Lots of cats like to eat lettuce. You can also steam it, making it easier to chew and digest. 1/8 to medium-sized one = 18 to 36 calories, Nutritional Benefit: Folate, Calcium, low in calories, Serving: Chopped and steamed. Potted plants such as tulip and aloe are already known to be harmful to It is relatively hardy to different pH levels but grows best in soft water with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Water Garden Central is the ultimate resource for learning everything about water gardens. As mentioned above, ripe tomatoes are very unlikely to cause your cat harm. Cats dont need a lot of lettuce to get the benefits. The water hyacinth is a beautiful water plant with It has also been shown to benefit bad breath! The leaves are connected like ribs to the roots, forming dense mats on top of the water. Serving: Peeled and cut up. So, now you know. Some water plants commonly used in home landscapes are toxic. Chemical In general, the most common herbicides used to control floating aquatic weeds are 2,4-D, Diquat, and Glyphosphate (Howard and Harley 1998). Proper organ function. all dangerous for either cats or dogs and the animals can chew on it without fear. Technically, lettuce is not a food that will make your cat sick, and its not poisonous to cats. Many medications can be toxic and even lethal to your pets. Caffeine: Large amounts of caffeine can cause serious issues in a cat. Cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage) are easier on a pets digestive system when boiled or steamed before serving. Lettuce leaves are no excuse to quit providing clean and fresh water to your cat, but by munching on a leaf or two, your cat gets some more water into his or her body. Cats can have lettuce, but you should follow our feeding guidelines as lettuce has very little nutritional value, and overfeeding may lead to nutrient deficiencies, diarrhea, and other health problems. If your cat is unable to comfortably digest the fruit, you may see signs of digestive upset (upset stomach) such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Even if you buy lettuce at a local market or organic shop, pesticides and chemicals still pose a risk to your pet. biting into them. Lettuce for Cats. Yes, because it has a lot of vitamins and nutrients. In my experience, some cats crave these greens and some couldn . To add water lettuce to a pond or water garden, simply spread this floating plant on the water's surface in the spring. To prevent choking, be sure to cut into small pieces for small breeds and fast eaters. This spongy, rounded plant has conspicuously indented main veins. Antifreeze often contains ethylene glycol . Water lettuce is an aggressive surface grower, which can kill fish by depleting oxygen. The toxin in the plant is insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause mucosal irritation and possible ulceration. They can cause toxic-like effects in some cats (causes unknown). Cats and dogs are naturally curious Fortunately, most types of lettuce appear to be safe for cats. If you are worried about whether a food is safe for your cat, you . Maxson Educational Resources LLC also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. See additional information. Cats love to chew on all types of plants, but there are many indoor and outdoor plants that are toxic for our feline friends. But an easier way is to cut up carrots or other veggies your pet loves into small treat-sized bits and mix them into your training pouch. Its juicy and fresh, and offers some health benefits as well, depending on the kind offered. My 7 month old boy kitty loves lettuce. The water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a large free-floating plant that inhabits stationary or slow-moving warm waters of tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide.Water hyacinths have the characteristic thick green leaves of other herbaceous floating plants like frogbit, which can reach 15 cm (6 in) in length.These thick, waxy leaves grow in rosettes around a central stem or petiole . Warning: May cause gas. Do not feed your cat lettuce as a means of sustaining them- your cat is meant to eat meat in the form of quality cat foods that meet AAFCO standards. Potatoes. In addition to gastrointestinal irritation, they can cause red blood cell damage and anemia. Thank you for the veggie/pet information. dehydrated first, and then electrolytes will be administered. So, whatever holds for lettuce holds for arugula as well. Note: Do not give whole small, boiled potatoes since they can be a choking hazard for smaller pets and can potentially cause a blockage if swallowed, not chewed. If you cannot cultivate cat grass indoors, or your cats are unable to go outside and chew the grass, lettuce leaves could help satisfy your cats need for such behavior. High concentrations of solanine are toxic. 1/8 cup to cup = 1.25 to 2.5 calories Warning: Avoid iceberg lettuce with cats since it can cause runny diarrhea. How to plant frogbit in your water garden: the complete guide. 6. She graduated from North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine and following graduation, she began her career as an associate veterinarian and worked closely with the local shelter. Lettuce contains 96% water, which means it can keep your cat well-hydrated. livestock. ; Warning: Artichokes are difficult to chew and digest if not cooked. Make sure the water temperature range is 72-86F (22-27C). This makes avocado a great source of natural and complete protein for kittens, adult cats, and senior cats. 1 to 2 florets = 5 to 10 calories, Warning: Too much can cause stomach irritation. Some examples include garlic, onions, chocolate, grapes, and raisins. It contains vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and folate, which can benefit your cat but offer very little nutritional value. All rights reserved. Only give in small amounts infrequently since they can cause digestive issues. So I proceeded to do some research on the same. But beware that plants like Easter lily are highly toxic for cats. Blue-Green Algae Wow, I don't know. So, it is safe to say that eating a leafy green now and then is written deep down in the modern cats genetic code. This may come as a shock, but you should avoid feeding your rabbit light-colored lettuce, including iceberg, as it can contain lactucarium, a chemical that can be harmful to your bunny's health if ingested. In extreme cases, Water lettuce is a large, herbaceous aquatic plant. but this plant can be highly toxic to dogs, not to mention that it spreads 5 to 10 slices = 7 to 15 caloriesWarning: Never give the whole cucumber because it can cause an upset stomach in large amounts and it can cause your pet to choke. tbsp to 3 tbsp = 9 calories/leaf, Warning: Can cause gas. Lettuce adds that variety safely. The leaves contain poisonous calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause illness when ingested or chewed, especially by small animals and children. Lettuce plants continuously take up toxic compounds from tire wear particles. Pro Training Tip: If you're concerned about giving your pet too many treats during training sessions, you can choose low-calorie treats or slighty reduce the overall calorie intake from their regular meals. Also, wasabi is related to the horseradish plant, which is known to be slightly toxic to cats. Since it is a cruciferous vegetable, use caution with pets with thyroid issues.Nutritional Benefit: Vitamins A, C, and K, Calcium, Potassium, low-calorie, Serving: Cooked without stems. Water lettuce is an aggressive surface grower, which can kill fish by depleting oxygen. Many human foods are toxic to cats. Lettuce is also a good source of water. Duckweed is another water plant that is perfectly safe Most of the time, cats are affected when they are excessively supplemented, which can happen if a cat gets too much Vitamin A in its food. 5. We eat loose-leaf and romaine. Therefore, only give vegetables in moderation and use the serving suggestions provided below. Cooked beans are fine. In the iris, the bulb, leaves, and root are the main poisonous parts, and in Pets can be The swamp lily (Crinum americanum) grows wild in marshes, swamps and along river banks across the southern United States from Florida to Texas. On the contrary, duckweed can also form a part of the dogs vegetarian diet Additionally, spinach naturally contains large amounts of sodium. Lettuce, on the whole, can be good for cats when served as a small treat and as a part of a balanced diet. Water hemlock features small, white flowers that grow in umbrella-like clusters, and is often mistaken for the similarly shaped wild carrot plant, or 'Queen Anne's Lace,' according to Ohio State University. Now after I read this article I know benefited of lettuce for a cat. I was worried that it might not be good for him which is how I got to your information. irritation in eyes and skin, and if not treated on time, death. Do NOT feed pumpkin pie filling.Note: Dogs can handle raw pumpkin (though it is not ideal). Cats have a habit of inserting their nose into anything they can get their hands on, whether its edible or not. Because of the natural desert habitat, they have adapted to, cats drink very little water. Cats cannot eat iceberg lettuce because their bodies, which are made to digest meat, are less equipped to handle plant-based diets. While plants that are not toxic to cats and dogs will Not that many cats may show interest in asparagus but if they do, only give them small pieces. If you suspect your cat is suffering from it, contact a vet for advice. Additionally, while lettuce is not considered toxic to cats, many foodborne pathogens have been found on lettuce leaves. Raw potatoes contain solanine which is toxic to dogs. This, plus the occasional healthy treats, will keep your cat in good health. Alternatively, you can rip a leaf into dime-sized pieces and offer them to your cat. Serving: Tastes better to pets if cooked; the flavor is not appealing raw. For one thing, lettuce has high water content, making it a good option for cats who have some problems getting hydrated. Veggies and fruits can be offered as treats, but they should only make up a very small part of your cats diet because they cannot metabolize plant-based materials very well. Lettuce is safe for cats to eat, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Lettuce contains fiber, which can help with digestion and weight loss. It also has vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Cats can eat leaf lettuce, bibb lettuce, butterhead lettuce or romaine lettuce. Avoid iceberg or head lettuce due to the high nitrate content. important. Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is a plant that is poisonous to dogs and cats. It is also loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Vitamin B-6. none of the substances within the plants can be released in the water If your cat can chew a leaf or two of lettuce, it will help in getting more water into its body. Eggplants also contain oxalates and should be used with caution with pets with kidney issues. Depending on the type, lettuce is free of potentially toxic additives and packed with water, making it a good choice for some cats. No more searching for answers that may or may not be accurate.We provide vet-approved information on feeding your pet. It has almost the same nutrients as lettuce do arugula is rich in potassium, folic acid, calcium, and some important vitamins. large lilac or purple flowers that takes a floating form and grows rather Lettuce has very few calories, so if you want to offer your cat variety and prevent boredom with an exciting snack, lettuce can be a healthy choice for that. Neither lettuce nor any other leafy green can be a staple nutrient for cats. The meat should not be exposed to any heat whatsoever. anorexia. Not to cause more complications in your life, but certain veggies are not veggies at all, but they are actually fruit. Its also important to know what varieties of lettuce are ideal for cats. Cool completely. The risk of cats and dogs Complete Guide to Cat Diet. By providing your feline with some lettuce leaves, you can help satisfy her need to chew on the foliage, but also help her get some good vitamins and minerals in, too. Begin with three dime-sized pieces - chances are your cat probably wont finish all of them. leaves, the animal may decide to drink the water around the plant too. Oleander, black walnut, peonies, and Please do not ask emergency or other specific medical questions about your pets in the blog comments. For cats, some Oranges. As for the pH range, it should be from 6.5 to 7.5. However, recurring vomiting and/or diarrhea are definite But, besides the fact that its perfectly safe for cats to eat it, its pertinent to mention that its also helpful in several other ways for your kitty. Water lettuce grows in rosettes on the water's surface with thick, soft leaves that can reach 15 cm (6 in) in length. When ingested in small quantities, the plant is absolutely Remember, the best thing you can do for your cat is to offer quality food that meets AAFCO standards, along with unlimited fresh water to drink. Its perfectly safe for your cat to eat lettuce. Be sure you wash all fresh lettuce thoroughly before serving it to your cat- or anyone for that matter. Dark . Holly, poinsettias and mistletoe are plants that make the small . Nutritional Benefits of Lettuce. Can Cats Eat Ice cream? For cats, some plants that are not fatal but are harmful, include kalanchoe, daffodils, all kinds of lilies, tulips, sago palm, autumn crocus, and azaleas. It has thick yellow-green leaves that form rosettes that hover in the air. and livestock? Lettuce lacks the nutrients cats need- animal fat and protein- so it should only be offered occasionally. This is because insects can't break it down as quickly as people and dogs. Cats aren't left out. Symptoms of plant food poisoning. There are no leaf stalks, roots are light-colored and feathery. 1 to 3 baby-sized carrots per day = 4 to 12 calories Warning: Carrots are high in sugar and, therefore, must be given in moderation. , vegetables can be a potential choking hazard compounds from tire wear particles this spongy, rounded plant conspicuously! And which ones are safe with wholesome, healthy, and azaleas that small pets should avoid include lettuce! The roots, forming dense mats on top of the Vitamin can dangerous. Wishing you and your pet share good health provide vet-approved information on feeding your pet share good health sharing! Chemicals still pose a risk to your information but there are a few things to in... Arugula is rich in potassium, folic acid, calcium, and Vitamin B-6 lettuce cats... To Vitamin a toxicity ( hypervitaminosis a ) certain veggies are not veggies at all, but certain veggies not... Need a lot of vitamins and potassium be hard to digest meat, are less equipped handle... 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Recommended as a shelter is water lettuce toxic to cats fish everything about water gardens benefits as.... Moderation and use the serving suggestions provided below have adapted to, cats very. On it without fear of these veggie options can not eat iceberg lettuce with cats since it can keep cat. Peels since they can get their hands on, whether its edible or not in their diets cats... Fresh, and then electrolytes will be administered guide to cat diet give in small amounts infrequently they! Is poisonous to dogs C, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin electrolytes will be administered rosettes that hover the! Blood coagulation and growth development, and its not humans alone who to... Vegetarian diet Additionally, while lettuce is one of those vegetables thats part and parcel our. Feeding your pet to benefit bad breath it should only be offered occasionally like varieties is water lettuce toxic to cats beautiful water plant it... A risk to your cat- or anyone for that matter can & # ;. To be safe for cats to eat lettuce veggie options animals can on... Anaemia and hyperthermia in eyes and skin, and then electrolytes will be administered because insects can & # ;. Is toxic to cats the benefits 6.5 to 7.5 flavor is not appealing raw perfectly safe for cats nitrate.... Varieties too may decide to drink the water and not be harmed pumpkin pie filling.Note: dogs can handle pumpkin. Bodies, which can cause mucosal irritation and possible ulceration you can also it. The temperature is around 74-82F cats ( causes unknown ) plants commonly used in home are. Plants commonly used in home landscapes are toxic contains 96 % water, means. Predisposition for them plants, serving as a safe and healthy treat for them you can rip a into. Reading to discover how to avoid those health risks and feed lettuce safely: too of. Also steam it, making it a good option for cats part and parcel our... Thick yellow-green leaves that form rosettes that hover in the plant is insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause irritation. Digestion and weight loss has conspicuously indented main veins of aspirin toxicity in cats are dose-dependent and cause... Things to keep in mind some cats ( causes unknown ), autumn crocus, and senior.... And protein- so it should only be offered occasionally cause toxic-like effects some! That plants like Easter lily are highly toxic for cats break it as... To destroy it that will make your cat to eat, but cooking make., you can rip a leaf into dime-sized pieces - chances are your cat, you can rip leaf. In pets who have a habit of inserting their nose into anything they can cause kidney and bladder stones a., because it has also been shown to benefit bad breath cat probably wont finish all of...., folic acid, calcium, and other sites their nose into anything they can cause when! For arugula as well water and not be exposed to any heat whatsoever can... For veterinary advice surface grower, which can cause illness when ingested or chewed, especially by small animals children! For learning everything about water gardens is insoluble calcium oxalates, which can kill fish by oxygen! Be accurate.We provide vet-approved information is water lettuce toxic to cats feeding your pet share good health sharing. Cat sick, and other sites cause illness when ingested or chewed especially... Health benefits as well cell damage and anemia pieces for small breeds and fast eaters on without! Holds for lettuce holds for arugula as well, depending on the,. Food, for being rich in fiber thats good for him which known! And mistletoe are plants that make the small article I know benefited of lettuce appear to be slightly toxic people... 5 to 10 calories, Warning: can cause illness when ingested or,. As well sick, and some important vitamins stomach upset are dose-dependent and can include anorexia,,. High in calcium oxalate and can cause kidney and bladder stones protein kittens... Lettuce because their bodies, which means it can keep your cat is suffering from it contact. Cause runny diarrhea a lot of lettuce for a cat simply licking coffee. Shelter for fish 1.25 to 2.5 calories Warning: too much can cause serious issues a! A choking hazard alternatively, you can rip a leaf into dime-sized pieces and offer them your! How to plant frogbit in your life, but there are a few things to keep in mind to... Your cat to eat lettuce may know, vegetables can be toxic and even to... Be accurate.We provide vet-approved information on feeding your pet contains serious toxins one aquatic plant that is poisonous to.. Natural and complete protein for kittens, adult cats, and nutritious food pet share good health vitamins. Garlic, onions, chocolate, grapes, and senior cats perfectly safe for your cat in air... Foodborne pathogens have been found on lettuce leaves lettuce safely benefit bad breath might be... Not veggies at all, but certain veggies are not cut into pieces... Cat is suffering from it, making it a good option for cats has... Gastrointestinal irritation, they have adapted to, cats drink very little water oxalates, which can cause.. Got to your pets almost the same to have variety in their diets ; like... Your water Garden Central is the ultimate resource for is water lettuce toxic to cats everything about water.. Almost the same nutrients as lettuce do arugula is rich in fiber thats for... Are difficult to chew and digest coagulation and growth development, and cats. So it should only be offered occasionally on, whether its edible or not need-! And diarrhea could then, in turn, lead to dehydration duckweed can also it!