PET HEALTH
Humans might disagree on the culinary qualities of cauliflower, but what about your pooch? Can dogs eat cauliflower? Yes! Cauliflower is one of the many vegetables that your dog can eat. But don’t go giving your dog a whole head of cauliflower just yet. There are some considerations to keep in mind.
Cauliflower is packed with nutrients, including:3
It’s also low in calories, making it a good weight-conscious snack.4 But there are some caveats to keep in mind.
Any time you introduce a new food to your dog’s diet, it could cause gastrointestinal upset. Cauliflower is even more likely to shake up your pooch’s digestion, since it’s so high in fiber. If you do start giving your dog cauliflower, expect gas. Keep watch for more worrisome side-effects, such as:3
These could indicate severe gastrointestinal distress, or even an allergic reaction. Contact your veterinarian right away if any of these occur. In general, it’s also good to talk to your vet before adding new foods into your pup’s bowl.
Cooked cauliflower is just as safe for your dog as raw cauliflower. In fact, it might even be better. Cooking the vegetable breaks down some of the fiber content, which makes it much easier to digest.4
If you do cook cauliflower for your dog, be sure not to add any other spices or ingredients, especially garlic or onions (which are toxic to dogs). You should also avoid oil or butter, as these can give your dog an upset stomach. Steamed or roasted plain cauliflower is the way to go.
Cauliflower can be given to your dog in one of two ways: raw or cooked. There are some basic rules you should follow that apply to both:
However you choose to give your dog cauliflower, remember: They don’t need it. Cauliflower can be good for your dog, but it shouldn’t be a regular part of their diet. Keep it a special once-in-a-while treat!
Cauliflower might be divisive at dinner time, but most dogs are happy to crunch on some curd. Just be sure to keep the portions small and hold off on the spices. If you’re still concerned about cauliflower safety, speak to your vet. Their knowledge of your pup’s medical history will help them decide if it’s a good idea or not.
For extra peace of mind, consider a dog insurance policy. MetLife1 Pet Insurance is designed to help you give your pet the care they deserve.2 So, if a cauliflower snack turns into a late-night vet visit, you won’t have to worry about affording the bill!
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.
2 Provided all terms of the policy are met. Application is subject to underwriting review and approval. Like most insurance policies, insurance policies issued by IAIC and MetGen contain certain deductibles, co-insurance, exclusions, exceptions, reductions, limitations, and terms for keeping them in force. For costs, complete details of coverage and exclusions, and a listing of approved states, please contact MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC.
3 “Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?,” Petco
4 “Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?,” Daily Paws