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Beets
Vegetables
- Safe Dog
- Safe cooked in small amounts. High in sugar and oxalates. Will turn stool/urine red — this is normal.
- Safe Cat
- Small amounts of cooked beets are safe. Color change in waste is normal.
- Safe Bird
- Cooked beets are safe. Will stain feathers and droppings temporarily.
- Caution Reptile
- High oxalates. Occasional small amounts for herbivorous species.
- Safe Horse
- Beet pulp is a common horse feed supplement. Fresh beets safe as treat.
- Caution Rabbit
- High sugar. Beet greens are better — offer those instead.
- Safe Small pet
- Small amounts safe for guinea pigs. Will stain.
- Caution Ferret
- No value for carnivores.
If your pet ate something dangerous
- Stay calm. Note what your pet ate, how much, and when.
- Call your vet or emergency animal hospital immediately.
- Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 A consultation fee may apply.
- Call Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 A consultation fee may apply.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
- Bring packaging or a sample of what was ingested to the vet.
About SafeBite
SafeBite is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your pet new foods, especially if your pet has known allergies, health conditions, or dietary restrictions. Toxicity can vary by species, breed, size, age, and individual health. When in doubt, contact your vet or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Data sources: ASPCA, FDA, Pet Poison Helpline, and peer-reviewed veterinary literature.