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Are the arugula leaves in those pre-packaged salad kits safe if my cat steals a few pieces?

Cats · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, the arugula leaves themselves are safe if your cat steals a few pieces. Arugula is a non-toxic leafy green for cats. However, the real concern with pre-packaged salad kits is the other ingredients often included, such as dressings, onions, garlic, or nuts, which can be harmful. If the arugula was plain and not coated in any dressing, a small amount is fine. Just monitor your cat for any mild digestive upset like soft stool. The main advice is to keep these kits out of reach, not because of the arugula, but to prevent access to the more dangerous components of human salads.

Arugula — Food safety facts

Safe to share · Cats · full breakdown on the linked food page

Safe in small amounts as a green treat.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Safe to share), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Arugula is not toxic to cats. The real limit is calories, fat and salt, so treat it as a small extra alongside the normal ration rather than a meal in itself.

There is no poisoning risk here, and the usual problem is simply eating too much at once: a heavy fat or salt load can bring on loose stools or a single vomit. Offer water, keep an eye on the pet for 24 hours, and do not induce vomiting.

Arugula can stay on the rotation, but only as an extra mouthful: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged and watch the litter box and how quickly they finish the next meal.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Arugula food facts page.

Open the full food page: Arugula food facts →