Sweet Potatoes
Dogs and cats can eat sweet potatoes. They are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and calcium, which support overall health. Low glycemic index + fiber help digestion and blood sugar control.
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They support overall health, aid digestion, and have a low glycemic index (GI), which helps with blood sugar control.
Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene helps maintain eye health in dogs and cats. It also supports the immune system and helps prevent cell damage, contributing to healthy skin, hair, nails, and muscle formation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and functions as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. It supports healthy skin, bones, muscles, and blood vessels, and aids iron absorption, helping prevent anemia.
Potassium
Potassium supports healthy blood pressure regulation and muscle function in dogs and cats.
Low GI Foods
The Glycemic Index (GI) measures how quickly carbohydrates are digested and converted into glucose. Low-GI foods are digested slowly, leading to a gradual release of glucose and helping prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar. For dogs and cats, this makes sweet potatoes beneficial for blood sugar regulation.
Because low-GI foods digest more slowly, they can help pets feel full longer and may support weight management.
Feeding Guidelines
- Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Peel if necessary.
- Cut into appropriate sizes and cook (boil or steam) before feeding.
- Avoid overfeeding; provide in moderate amounts.
- Depending on your pet’s digestion, small amounts of raw sweet potato may be tolerated, but if any digestive issues appear, feed only cooked.
Precautions When Feeding Sweet Potatoes
- High in calories and sugar — avoid for pets with diabetes or obesity.
- Contains oxalic acid; in large amounts this can contribute to kidney stones — keep portions moderate.
- Rich in potassium — limit or avoid for pets with kidney or heart conditions.
- Pets with weak digestion may experience diarrhea — if so, discontinue or feed only small, cooked portions.
Summary
Sweet potatoes can be a healthy, nutritious treat for dogs and cats when prepared properly. They offer fiber, beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium to support digestion, immunity, and eye health. Serve cooked, remove skins if needed, and keep portions moderate—especially for pets with diabetes, obesity, kidney, or heart conditions.