Vegetable
Carrot
Crunchy root vegetable high in beta-carotene and fibre, moderately high in natural sugars.
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Who can eat it
DogsRabbits (occasional treat)Guinea pigs (small amounts)TortoisesParrotsRats
Not suitable for
Cats as a meaningful food sourceSnakes
Benefits
- Low-calorie chew for dogs
- Provides enrichment and natural chewing
- Source of vitamin A precursors
Risks
- Sugar content makes it a treat, not a staple, for rabbits and guinea pigs
- Whole carrots can be a choking hazard for small dogs
Preparation and serving
- Preparation
- Wash and cut into safe sizes. Feed raw to rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and parrots; dogs can have it raw for chewing or steamed.
- Serving guidance
- Rabbits: a coin-sized slice a few times weekly, not a daily food.
Before offering carrot
- Check the exact animal and preparation: the listed suitability is Dogs; Rabbits (occasional treat); Guinea pigs (small amounts); Tortoises; Parrots; Rats. A food being edible does not make it a complete diet.
- Follow the preparation advice: Wash and cut into safe sizes. Feed raw to rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and parrots; dogs can have it raw for chewing or steamed. Do not substitute a seasoned or processed version and assume the same safety.
- Portion guidance: Rabbits: a coin-sized slice a few times weekly, not a daily food. For a pet on a prescribed diet, discuss extras with the vet first.
- If your pet develops vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort, stop offering the extra and seek advice. Suspected poisoning or breathing difficulty needs immediate veterinary help.
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Guidance libraries and further reading
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