Pet parents across the U.S. are becoming more intentional about what goes into their own bodies — and it’s only natural to want the same nutrient-dense approach for your dog or cat. That’s where “superfoods” for pets come in. While the term isn’t a scientific one, it usually refers to ingredients that are naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that can support your animal’s overall health when used appropriately.
Before we dive in, one key reminder: superfoods should complement, not replace, a complete and balanced commercial diet formulated for your dog or cat’s life stage. Used wisely, they can be a powerful boost — used carelessly, they can lead to stomach upset or even toxicity.
What makes a superfood for dogs and cats?
For pets, a “superfood” is typically an ingredient that offers:
- High nutrient density relative to calories
- Natural sources of antioxidants to fight cellular damage
- Essential fatty acids that support skin, coat, joints, and brain
- Digestive benefits such as fiber or natural enzymes
- Minimal processing and few added ingredients
The best superfoods are also low-risk — meaning they’re safe for dogs and cats in small, appropriate amounts and don’t interfere with medications or preexisting conditions. Your veterinarian is always the best person to help you decide what makes sense for your particular animal.
Top pet-safe superfoods and their benefits
Here are some of the most commonly recommended superfoods that can fit into a U.S. pet’s daily routine. Always introduce one at a time, in tiny amounts, and watch for any digestive upset, itching, or behavior changes.
Blueberries: tiny antioxidant powerhouses
Blueberries are safe for both dogs and cats in moderation and are packed with:
- Antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support cellular health
- Vitamin C and vitamin K
- Fiber to gently support digestion
How to serve blueberries to pets:
- Offer 1–2 fresh berries to a cat as a treat, a few times per week
- Give small dogs 2–3 berries, medium dogs up to 5, and large dogs up to 8–10 as an occasional snack
- Use as low-calorie training treats for dogs that enjoy the taste
Skip any blueberries that are sweetened, covered in yogurt or chocolate, or baked into sugary human desserts.
Pumpkin: gentle support for the gut
Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is a classic superfood for both dogs and cats. It offers:
- Soluble and insoluble fiber that can help with both constipation and mild diarrhea
- Beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which supports immune function and vision
- Potassium and other trace minerals
Serving guidelines:
- Use only plain canned pumpkin (100% pumpkin) or fresh, cooked pumpkin with no sugar, salt, or spices
- For cats, start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon mixed into wet food once a day
- For small dogs (under 20 lbs), start with 1 teaspoon per day
- For medium dogs (20–50 lbs), try 1–2 teaspoons per day
- For large dogs (over 50 lbs), 1–4 tablespoons per day, depending on size
If your pet has any ongoing digestive issues, always check with your vet before relying on pumpkin as a home remedy.
Salmon and sardines: omega-3s for skin, coat, and brain
Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which help support:
- Healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat
- Joint health, especially in senior pets and those with arthritis
- Brain development in kittens and puppies
- Overall immune function and a balanced inflammatory response
Safe ways to feed fish:
- Use cooked, unseasoned salmon with skin removed and no bones
- Choose canned sardines packed in water (no added salt, oil, or flavorings)
- Offer tiny portions: for cats and small dogs, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon; for large dogs, 1–2 tablespoons, 1–2 times per week
A dedicated omega-3 pet supplement, prescribed by your veterinarian, is often a more controlled and reliable way to deliver these benefits, especially for pets with allergies or chronic conditions.
Leafy greens: low-calorie nutrient boosters
Some leafy greens are safe and healthy in moderation, particularly for dogs, and occasionally for cats that are curious chewers. Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard can provide:
- Vitamins A, C, and K
- Folate and iron
- Phytonutrients with potential anti-inflammatory benefits
How to offer leafy greens:
- Lightly steam or blanch greens to make them easier to digest
- Chop finely and mix a small amount into your pet’s regular food
- For dogs, a tablespoon or two for medium to large breeds a few times a week is usually sufficient
- For cats, think in “pinch” sizes only — many cats will simply refuse them, and that is perfectly okay
Because some greens are higher in oxalates, they may not be suitable for pets with certain kidney or urinary tract issues. Ask your vet if leafy greens are appropriate for your animal.
Eggs: complete, easily digestible protein
Eggs are often called “nature’s multivitamin” and can benefit both dogs and cats when cooked and fed in moderation. They are rich in:
- High-quality protein with a complete amino acid profile
- Fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D
- Choline, which supports brain and liver function
Tips for feeding eggs safely:
- Always cook eggs thoroughly (boiled or scrambled with no oil, butter, salt, or seasoning)
- Skip raw eggs due to the risk of bacteria and biotin interference
- For cats and small dogs, start with 1–2 teaspoons of cooked egg
- For medium to large dogs, 1/2 to 1 egg once or twice a week is usually enough
Because eggs are calorie-dense, you may need to reduce other treats that day to avoid weight gain.
Plain yogurt and kefir: potential gut allies
Some dogs and cats can tolerate small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt or kefir, which may provide probiotic benefits. These products can:
- Support a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria
- Help some animals with mild, diet-related digestive changes
- Deliver calcium and protein
Important cautions:
- Many pets are lactose intolerant; start with tiny amounts and monitor for gas or diarrhea
- Choose plain products with no added sugar, xylitol, or artificial sweeteners (xylitol is highly toxic to dogs)
- Probiotic supplements specifically formulated for pets are often a safer and more precise option
Bone broth: hydration and joint support
Homemade or high-quality commercial bone broth (formulated for pets) can be a comforting superfood, especially for older dogs and cats or picky eaters. It may provide:
- Collagen and gelatin that support joint and gut health
- Extra hydration for pets that do not drink much water
- Aromatic encouragement for pets with poor appetite
Serving suggestions:
- Use low-sodium, onion-free, garlic-free broth only
- Pour a small amount over kibble or mix into wet food
- Offer as a warm, separate drink in a bowl for cats and dogs that enjoy it
Read labels carefully. Many human bone broths contain onion, garlic, or high levels of salt, all of which can be harmful to pets.
Safe integration: how to add superfoods to meals
To get the benefits of superfoods without upsetting your pet’s stomach or diet balance, follow a thoughtful process.
- Start small: Introduce only one new food at a time, in very small amounts. Wait several days before adding another.
- Watch for reactions: Look for vomiting, loose stool, excessive gas, itching, or changes in behavior. If you notice anything concerning, stop the new food and call your vet.
- Adjust calories: Treats and extras, including superfoods, should generally make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake.
- Consider life stage and health status: Kittens, puppies, seniors, pregnant or nursing animals, and pets with chronic diseases may need more careful supervision.
Superfoods to avoid or use with extreme caution
Not every “healthy” human food is safe for pets. Some nutrient-dense ingredients can be dangerous for dogs and cats.
- Grapes and raisins: Can cause acute kidney failure in dogs (and potentially cats).
- Onions, garlic, chives, leeks: Damage red blood cells and can lead to anemia.
- Avocado: The flesh may be tolerated in tiny amounts by some dogs, but it is best avoided, especially for cats, due to fat content and potential toxicity in other parts of the plant.
- Macadamia nuts and many other nuts: Can be toxic or cause pancreatitis due to high fat content.
- Chocolate and cocoa nibs: Dangerous due to theobromine and caffeine.
- Green tea extracts and strong caffeine-containing supplements: Can lead to heart and nervous system problems.
Never assume that a food is safe for your pet just because it is labeled healthy or “super” for humans.
Reading pet food labels for superfood ingredients
Many commercial pet foods in the U.S. feature blueberries, pumpkin, spinach, or salmon on the label to appeal to health-conscious owners. When evaluating these products, keep a few points in mind:
- Look for AAFCO statements: Make sure the food is labeled as “complete and balanced” for your pet’s life stage according to AAFCO profiles.
- Check ingredient order: Superfoods listed far down the ingredient list may be present in only trace amounts.
- Focus on the overall formula: The quality of core proteins and fats matters more than a sprinkling of trendy ingredients.
- Beware of marketing buzzwords: Superfoods on the bag do not automatically equal better nutrition if the base diet is poor.
When to talk to your veterinarian
Superfoods sound exciting, but they are not a replacement for professional guidance. Please reach out to your vet before making significant changes to your dog or cat’s diet, especially if:
- Your pet has kidney, liver, heart, or pancreatic disease
- Your pet is on long-term medications or has known food allergies
- You are considering homemade or raw diets with large amounts of superfood ingredients
- Your pet is very young, very old, underweight, or overweight
A veterinarian or board-certified veterinary nutritionist can help you design a feeding plan that safely incorporates superfoods while meeting all of your animal companion’s nutritional needs.
Used thoughtfully, superfoods can be a tasty, enriching addition to your pet’s bowl — a way to add variety, enjoyment, and a concentrated dose of key nutrients. Focus on safety, moderation, and evidence-based choices, and your dog or cat can reap the benefits without the risks.
Written by Lisa Tissed