Can Cats Eat Beetroot?
Yes — cats can eat a very small amount of cooked beetroot, but beetroot is not recommended for regular feeding. While beetroot is non-toxic, it is high in sugar, hard to digest, and can cause stomach issues. Raw beetroot, pickled beetroot, and seasoned beetroot are unsafe.
This guide explains everything you must know before giving beetroot to your cat.
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Green Beans? A Complete Guide for Cat Owners
Moreover if you want to read a detailed guide on which veggies are safe for your cat and which are unsafe i have created a full detailed guide check it out: Can Cats Eat Vegetables? Full List of Safe, Unsafe & Toxic Veggies (Vet-Approved Guide).
Is Beetroot Safe for Cats?
Beetroot is technically safe but not ideal for cats.
Safe:
- A tiny amount of cooked beetroot
- Plain, soft, boiled, or steamed
- Finely chopped or mashed
Not safe:
- Raw beetroot
- Pickled beetroot
- Beetroot juice
- Canned beetroot
- Beetroot cooked with oil, salt, spices
- Beetroot leaves (oxalates)
Cats should only have a very small amount, rarely.
Do Cats Even Like Beetroot?
Most cats do not like beetroot because:
- Cats cannot taste sweetness
- Beetroot has an earthy smell
- The texture is unusual
If a cat eats beetroot, it’s usually curiosity, not preference.
Nutritional Value of Beetroot
For humans, beetroot is rich in:
- Fiber
- Natural sugars
- Potassium
- Folate
- Vitamin C
- Antioxidants
But cats do not need plant-based nutrients — they get all essential nutrients from meat.
Benefits of Beetroot for Cats
The benefits are very limited because cats cannot utilise most nutrients in vegetables.
Possible mild benefits:
- Slight hydration (beetroot contains water)
- Tiny fibre support for constipation
- Antioxidants (mild benefit only)
But these benefits can be achieved safely with pumpkin or vet-approved fibre.
Risks of Feeding Beetroot to Cats
Beetroot comes with several important risks.
1. Digestive problems
Beetroot is high in fiber and sugar, causing:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Stomach pain
- Bloating
Cats’ digestive systems are not built to handle starchy vegetables.
2. Natural sugar content
Beetroot contains high sugar levels, increasing risk of:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Dental problems
Especially dangerous for older cats or overweight cats.
3. Beetroot leaves contain oxalates
Oxalates can contribute to:
- Kidney stones
- Urinary issues
Similar to spinach — leaves are unsafe.
4. Beetroot can stain urine and stool
It may cause red-colored urine or stool, which can look like blood, causing unnecessary panic.
5. Pickled beetroot is dangerous
Pickled beetroot contains:
- Salt
- Vinegar
- Sugar
- Spices
- Preservatives
All unsafe for cats.
How Much Beetroot Can Cats Eat?
Beetroot should be given rarely and minimally.
Safe portion:
- 1–2 pea-sized pieces
- Only cooked and plain
- Once every 2–4 weeks
Not safe:
- Regular feeding
- Raw beetroot
- Beetroot juice
- Large serving
Beetroot should never be a weekly treat.
How to Prepare Beetroot for Cats Safely?
Step 1: Wash thoroughly
Remove dirt and pesticides.
Step 2: Peel the beetroot
Skin is tougher to digest.
Step 3: Boil or steam
Must be soft.
Step 4: Cut into tiny pieces
Prevents choking.
Step 5: Serve plain
No salt, oil, butter, vinegar, or spices.
Step 6: Start very small
Observe for any digestive changes.
Can Cats Eat Raw Beetroot?
No.
Raw beetroot is:
- Too hard
- Fibrous
- Difficult to digest
- A choking hazard
Always cook beetroot.
Can Cats Drink Beetroot Juice?
No.
Beetroot juice is concentrated sugar and can upset a cat’s stomach quickly.
Can Cats Eat Beetroot Leaves?
No.
Leaves contain high oxalates which contribute to kidney stones and urinary issues.
Can Kittens Eat Beetroot?
Absolutely not.
Kittens have extremely sensitive digestive systems.
Which Cats Should Avoid Beetroot Completely?
Avoid feeding beetroot to cats who have:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Kidney disease
- Urinary crystals
- IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
- Chronic diarrhea
- Sensitive stomach
- Kittens under 6 months
Healthier Alternatives to Beetroot for Cats
Safer treats include:
- Cooked chicken
- Tuna flakes
- Freeze-dried salmon
- Pumpkin puree
- Plain egg (tiny amount)
- Vet-approved cat treats
These match a cat’s carnivore diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it can cause digestive issues.
It may help slightly, but pumpkin is much safer.
No — too much sugar and fibre.
Most cats do not.
Beetroot pigments cause red colouring — not blood.
Final Verdict: Can Cats Eat Beetroot?
Yes, cats can eat a tiny amount of cooked, plain beetroot, but it is not recommended as a regular treat. Beetroot offers minimal benefits and several risks, especially for cats with digestive or urinary issues.
If your cat wants to try beetroot, keep the portion minimal and infrequent. For healthier treat options, choose meat-based foods that match your cat’s natural diet.