Carrot

The carrot is a root vegetable used in small amounts in some dog and cat foods and treats, supplying fibre, water and micronutrients including beta-carotene, a pigment that dogs can convert into vitamin A. Cats are the surprising exception: they convert beta-carotene poorly and depend on a direct dietary supply of preformed vitamin A, a reminder that the obligate carnivore's needs differ sharply from the dog's (NRC, 2006). The carrot acts as a supporting ingredient rather than a major nutritional source. Its fibre contributes modestly to transit and stool volume, and its low calorie density makes it a handy low-energy treat, for example a piece of raw carrot for a dog whose weight is being watched (USDA FoodData Central). Cooking improves the availability of some nutrients, though raw carrot is also enjoyed as a crunchy chew. A common marketing line highlights the carrot's antioxidants, but that argument stays modest given the small amount present in most recipes, much like the case of [blueberry](/glossary/blueberry). The marker: the carrot is a supporting plant ingredient supplying fibre and beta-carotene, useful as a low-calorie treat, with a nutritional role that stays secondary within a complete ration. Compare its place with [pumpkin and squash](/glossary/squash-pumpkin) and [apple](/glossary/apple) among the plant extras in the [Petipedia glossary](/glossary).

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General documentary information. For an individual animal, a veterinarian's advice takes precedence over any online content.