Along with the holidays comes holiday food, which is often rich, sugary, and fattening. Many holiday foods aren’t safe for pets, and some are even potentially fatal. Before you start cooking for the holidays, take a look at these do’s and don’ts of giving your pet human food.
Many Foods are Toxic to Pets
Even foods that seem safe can be toxic to pets, particularly if they contain excessive sugar or fat, or artificial sweeteners. Avoid feeding your pet the following:
● Fats, oils, raw meat, or bones – excess fats and oils can cause diarrhea and vomiting, and raw meat can carry bacteria and disease. Bones can easily splinter and cause intestinal puncturing or bleeding.
● Avocados, grapes, olives, nuts, or raisins – these all contain substances that are toxic to pets and can cause kidney or liver failure.
● Alcohol – alcohol can cause seizures, brain damage, organ failure, and death.
● Garlic and onions – both contain toxins that can make your pet sick, including gastrointestinal issues and hemolytic anemia.
● Chocolate, sugar, and artificial sweeteners – chocolate, even in small amounts, can be harmful for pets. Sugar and artificial sweeteners can increase your pet’s blood sugar to dangerous and even fatal levels.
Some Fun Holiday Treats That are Pet-Safe
Despite the warnings above, there are still some fun holiday treats that are pet-safe. If you want your pet to join in on the celebration and enjoy a holiday meal alongside you, choose a small amount of one of the following:
● Canned or fresh pumpkin or sweet potatoes – choose plain pumpkin or sweet potatoes with no add-ins like butter, sugar, marshmallows, nuts, or raisins. Pumpkin and sweet potatoes have antioxidants that are great for pets, and can also ease tummy problems and improve digestion.
● Lean meats – lean meat with the skin and fat removed can be safe for pets in small amounts. This includes turkey, ground beef, and salmon. Make sure all bones are removed and the meat is fully cooked.
● Peanut butter – in small amounts, peanut butter is fine. It is high in fat and sugar, so offer it sparingly, and make sure your peanut butter doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners like Xylitol. All-natural peanut butter with no added sugar or salt is best.
● Fruits and Vegetables – peas, carrots, celery, green beans, spinach, brussels sprouts, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, bananas, and apples are all safe for pets. Just make sure the skin is removed and that there are no add-ins or dressings.
If you’ve noticed your pet has an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea or you think he ate something he shouldn’t have, visit your local veterinarian as soon as possible.