Artichokes are thistle flower buds with a tender heart and fibrous leaves, sold fresh or as canned or jarred hearts and often steamed, boiled, or grilled. They provide fiber and some vitamins, but the tough leaves may be hard to chew and the extra fiber may upset digestion if overfed. Offer small portions of plain cooked heart and avoid oily, salty, or marinated preparations.
Artichokes are the immature flower buds of a large thistle plant, with overlapping leaves that protect the tender heart. Fresh buds show up in spring, and good ones feel heavy with tightly packed leaves. The fuzzy choke sits above the heart and is removed before eating.
Jarred and canned artichoke hearts are packed in brine or oil. Marinated versions add vinegar, herbs, and salt. Frozen hearts are simpler but may still include added ingredients. Those add-ins are a common reason they are not ideal for pets.
