Holiday Edible Gifts for Cats and Dogs: Safe Plant Treats They’ll Love
The holidays are the perfect time to treat the pets in your life to something special. While toys and cozy beds are always a hit, edible gifts can bring extra excitement—and even some health benefits—to the season. From pet-safe herbs to tasty fruits and crunchy greens, there are plenty of plant-based treats that cats and dogs can safely enjoy. Here are some fun and festive edible gift ideas to brighten your pet’s holiday.
Edible Holiday Gifts for Cats: Safe Herbs, Fruits & Greens
Healthy Herb Gifts for Cats
If your cat has ever sniffed your dinner plate a little too closely, you may already know they enjoy some surprising foods, like no-salt olives (they’re related to catnip!) and even avocado. But that’s just the beginning.
Festive Greens Your Cat Can Safely Enjoy
For Hanukkah, Christmas, or any winter holiday, many cats enjoy leafy greens. A bundle of fresh spinach in a simple glass of water is a great gift—skip the decorative ribbons or added herbs. Cats tend to prefer their veggies plain.
And if your cat stares at you every time you make celery juice, they might be dropping hints. Raw celery is nutritious for cats. You can dice it, but most cats enjoy playing with (and chewing on) the whole stalk, especially with the leafy top attached.
Holiday Fruits Cats Can Snack On
Some plant gifts aren’t green at all:
Cantaloupe — Rich in antioxidants and beta-carotene, this fruit supports skin and eye health.
Watermelon — Safe in moderation. Don’t let your cat overdo it, or they’ll find themselves visiting the litter box more often than they’d like.
Blueberries, bananas, and apples — A colorful fruit box makes a fun holiday treat. And honestly, the cardboard box itself may be your cat’s favorite part.
Edible Holiday Gifts for Dogs: Seasonal Herbs & Tasty Plant Treats
Dogs love the holiday season—extra time with family, extra cuddles, and sometimes a few extra snacks from the kitchen. While traditional treats like raw carrots and celery are always popular, you can mix things up this year with some pet-safe herbs.
Great Herb Gifts for Dogs During the Holidays
Before the Christmas countdown begins, consider gathering herbs that support your dog’s wellness:
Alfalfa — Supports immune health
Burdock — May help with inflammation and joint comfort
If you want to go bigger with your herbal gifts, pick up bundles of basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint. All are pet-safe in moderation and bring variety to your dog’s treat routine.
Nourishing Herbs to Support Your Dog’s Health
Herbs aren’t just tasty—they can support skin and digestive health too:
Calendula and chamomile — May help soothe skin
Licorice and neem — Often used to support skin comfort and overall wellness
More Edible Holiday Treat Ideas for Dogs
If your dog ends up enjoying a few more holiday cookies than planned, you can add fennel to their gift bag. It naturally supports digestion and may help with tummy troubles after extra treats.
Holiday Safety Tips for Multi-Pet Homes
It’s always a good idea to double-check any plant or human food before giving it to your pet. Some foods safe for cats may not be safe for dogs—and vice versa. If you live in a multi-pet household, keep a shared list of toxic foods handy to avoid mix-ups.
Talk to Your Vet Before Trying New Treats
Before introducing any new herbs, greens, or fruits—even safe ones—check with your veterinarian. Pets have different tastes and sensitivities, so your cat or dog might not enjoy every new food you offer, and that’s okay. Experimenting safely is part of the fun.
Your vet can also help confirm what’s safe and what isn’t, with far more accuracy than an internet search.
Show Your Pet Some Love with Pet Insurance
If you’re worried about accidental ingestions or unexpected holiday mishaps, pet insurance can offer extra peace of mind. Spot Pet Insurance provides accident and optional illness coverage for pets, helping support pet parents when something unexpected happens. With dog insurance and cat insurance options, you can help protect your pet no matter what they might get into this season.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
