Can Cats Eat Spinach? Oxalates, Benefits and Who Should Avoid It
Spinach has a reputation as a superfood for people. For cats, that reputation does not transfer. A cat that nibbles a spinach leaf is unlikely to come to harm, but there are good reasons why it should not become a habit, and some cats should avoid it entirely.
Is spinach safe for cats?
Spinach is not classed as toxic to cats. It contains vitamins A, C and K, iron, folate and fiber. However, cats are obligate carnivores. Their bodies are designed to get nutrients from animal tissue, and a balanced cat food already supplies everything they need. See how to read a cat food label.
The oxalate problem
Spinach is one of the highest-oxalate vegetables. Oxalates bind with calcium and can form crystals. In cats prone to calcium oxalate stones, a high-oxalate diet is a concern. See bladder stones and crystals in cats. Oxalates may also not be suitable for cats with kidney problems. See chronic kidney disease in cats.
A single leaf is unlikely to cause trouble in a healthy cat, but regular servings add up. Cats that have had urinary problems should avoid spinach.
Other risks
Potassium. Spinach contains potassium, which matters for some cats with kidney or heart disease.
Gas and diarrhea. Fiber can upset a sensitive stomach. See diarrhea in cats.
Seasonings and sauces. Creamed spinach, garlic, onion, butter, salt and cheese are harmful or unsuitable. See are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
Pesticides and bacteria. Wash leaves well.
Frozen blocks. Hard frozen spinach can be a choking hazard.
Are there benefits?
Spinach offers fiber, and some vets suggest small amounts of vegetables for cats with mild digestive issues. However, other options, such as pumpkin, are more commonly used. See can cats eat pumpkin and constipation in cats. Do not use spinach as medicine without veterinary advice.
Do cats eat spinach for a reason?
Cats are curious and may nibble leaves for texture, boredom or to help with digestion. See why do cats eat grass. If your cat chews plants constantly, give it safe cat grass and enrichment instead. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
How to serve spinach, if you choose to
- Choose plain spinach, steamed or lightly boiled, with no salt, butter or seasoning.
- Chop it very finely.
- Offer a tiny amount, no more than a teaspoon.
- Watch for stomach upset for the next day.
- Do not offer it regularly, and keep treats under about ten percent of daily calories. See how much should I feed my cat.
Cats that should avoid spinach
- Cats with kidney disease
- Cats with a history of urinary stones or crystals. See urinary tract infection in cats.
- Cats with heart disease on restricted diets
- Kittens, who need a complete diet. See kitten feeding schedule.
Safer plant options
Many cats enjoy cat grass or catnip. See cat-safe houseplants and is catnip safe for cats. Avoid toxic plants. See toxic houseplants for cats.
Other vegetables
See can cats eat broccoli, can cats eat green beans and can cats eat cucumber.
Spinach in commercial cat foods
Some cat foods include small amounts of spinach or other leafy greens as a source of fiber and plant nutrients. At these levels the oxalate content is low and the overall diet is balanced. The concern is feeding large or regular servings at home. If your cat has a history of urinary stones, check the ingredient list of any food you buy, and ask your vet which ingredients to avoid.
Raw versus cooked spinach
Cooking, especially boiling, reduces some of the oxalate in spinach, though not all, and the water should be discarded. Raw leaves are tougher and can irritate the stomach. In either case, offer only a tiny amount, finely chopped.
Spinach and other leafy greens
Other greens, such as lettuce and kale, vary in oxalate. Cats do not need any of them, and a cat that eats leaves regularly may be bored or seeking fiber. Offer cat grass, and provide play and puzzle feeders. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
When to see a vet
Contact your vet if your cat has vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the urine or straining after eating spinach, or if it has a medical condition. See signs of a urinary blockage in cats. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is spinach toxic to cats?
Not toxic to healthy cats in small amounts, but not recommended in quantity.
Why avoid spinach with kidney disease?
It contains oxalates and potassium, which may not suit affected cats.
Can cats eat raw spinach?
Small amounts are not poisonous, but raw leaves are harder to digest.
Can spinach help constipation?
A little fiber might, but see a vet for constipation.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- WSAVA Global Nutrition GuidelinesHow to judge a pet food and the company that makes it.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
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.