Can cats eat green beans?
Yes, a small piece of plain green bean is fine as an occasional treat. The ASPCA says green beans can be a great green snack for a dog or cat, and Cats Protection suggests steamed or boiled green beans with no butter, salt or seasoning.
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Why
The ASPCA says green beans can be a great green snack for a dog or cat. Cats Protection suggests steamed or boiled vegetables such as green beans with no butter, salt or seasoning, and the RSPCA lists green beans as suitable for cats and dogs in moderation, raw or cooked but unseasoned. Cats don't need vegetables, and any plant material can cause vomiting or stomach upset.
What to do
Start with a small piece. If your cat vomits or gets an upset stomach afterwards, stop and ask your vet.
How to give it
A small piece, steamed or boiled, with no butter, salt or seasoning.
Questions and answers
Do cats need vegetables?
No. Cats Protection says cats rarely eat vegetables naturally and there is no need to add them to their diet. A vegetable can only ever be a small extra.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Healthy, Safe Snacks to Help Your Pet Slim Down — ASPCA (2017-01-10, no author shown)
- Christmas dinner: Can cats eat turkey? — Cats Protection blog (1 Dec 2025, RVN Helen Crofts)
- Christmas dangers for pets — RSPCA (no date shown, © 2026)
- The best diet for your cat — PDSA (2024-01)
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
- Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.