Can Cats Eat Peas? Green Peas, Pods and Safe Servings

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Peas are among the most popular vegetables, and they roll across the floor in a way that a playful cat finds irresistible. Some cats will chew them, and some will ignore them. If your cat eats a pea, there is no need to worry, but there are a few details to know.

Are peas safe for cats?

Garden peas, the green seeds, are not toxic to cats. They contain fiber, vitamin K, some B vitamins and plant protein. Cats, however, are obligate carnivores and need animal-based protein. Peas do not offer the amino acids that cats need, such as taurine. See taurine: why cats need it.

Sweet peas are different

The flowering sweet pea plant is different from the edible pea and can cause problems if eaten, particularly the seeds. Keep garden flowers away from cats. See toxic houseplants for cats and cat poisoning what to do.

Possible benefits

• Fiber. A small amount may help digestion.
• Vitamins and minerals. Minor contributions, as a balanced cat food already covers needs.
• Low calories. Peas are low in calories compared with many treats, though they contain starch.

Risks and cautions

Salt and seasoning. Canned peas often have added sodium. Peas cooked with butter, onion, garlic or sauces are unsuitable. See are onions and garlic toxic to cats.

Pods. Snow peas and snap peas have fibrous pods that can cause choking or digestive upset. Give shelled peas only.

Whole frozen peas. Hard peas are a choking hazard. Thaw them first.

Gas and stomach upset. Peas can cause gas or soft stool, especially in large quantities.

Kidney disease. Peas contain phosphorus and protein that may not suit cats with kidney disease. See chronic kidney disease in cats.

Carbohydrates. Too many peas add starch, which is not ideal for diabetic or overweight cats. See diabetes in cats.

Peas in cat food

Peas and pea protein appear in many grain-free and high-protein cat foods. They are not harmful in themselves, but a cat's diet should be built on meat. Check labels to see where animal protein sits in the ingredient list. See how to read a cat food label and is grain-free cat food better.

How to serve peas

1. Use plain green peas, fresh or frozen, with no salt or seasoning.
2. Cook them until soft, or thaw frozen peas completely.
3. Mash or offer one or two, since cats rarely need more.
4. Observe your cat for stomach upset for a day.
5. Keep treats under about ten percent of daily calories. See how much should I feed my cat.

Peas as toys

Cats may bat peas around. This is fine for a short time, but they can be swallowed and cause gagging. Supervise, and give proper toys. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.

Other vegetables

Cats occasionally nibble other vegetables. See can cats eat green beans, can cats eat carrots and can cats eat broccoli.

Kittens

Kittens need a complete kitten diet and do not need vegetables. See kitten feeding schedule.

Peas, protein and the label

Many cat foods list peas or pea protein near the top of the ingredients. Because plant protein counts toward the protein percentage on the label, a food can look protein-rich while relying on peas. Cats do better with animal protein. When reading labels, look for named meats first, and compare the overall composition. See how to read a cat food label.

Pea allergies and sensitivity

Pea allergy is uncommon in cats, but any new food can cause trouble. Watch for itching, vomiting or diarrhea after trying peas. If your cat has sensitive digestion, introduce any new food slowly. See cat food allergies and sensitive stomachs.

Peas in the garden

Growing peas at home is fine, but cats often like to dig in vegetable beds. Protect seedlings with netting, and keep cats away from fertilizers, slug pellets and pesticides. Wash garden peas before offering any to a pet, and do not let cats eat the vines or pods in quantity.

Serving ideas

If your cat likes peas, mash one or two into its wet food, or roll one across the floor as a toy under supervision. Do not leave peas lying around, since they can be swallowed whole.

When to see a vet

Call your vet if your cat has persistent diarrhea or vomiting after eating peas, or if it has a medical condition and you want to change its diet. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.