10 Things to Avoid Feeding Your Pets from the Holiday Table
The holidays are a time of joy, family gatherings, and of course, delicious food. But while you’re indulging in your festive feast, it’s important to remember that not all human foods are safe for your furry friends. Sharing food with your pet might feel like an act of love, but some common holiday treats can lead to serious health problems. Here are 10 foods to keep away from your pets this holiday season:
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and seizures.
2. Bones and Fatty Trimmings
While plain turkey, chicken or duck meat can be a safe treat in moderation, avoid giving pets cooked bones or fatty scraps. This includes turkey bones, chicken bones, duck bones, and ham bones. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, while fatty trimmings can lead to pancreatitis. Avoid giving ham to your pets, as it’s typically high in salt and fat, which can lead to digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs.
3. Onions, Garlic, and Chives
These common ingredients can cause gastrointestinal upset and damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia in both dogs and cats. Watch out for these in stuffing, gravy, and other holiday dishes.
4. Alcohol
Even small amounts of alcohol can be extremely dangerous for pets. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, breathing difficulties, and even coma.
5. Grapes and Raisins
These seemingly harmless fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs and possibly cats. Be cautious with holiday desserts like fruitcakes or salads that include grapes or raisins.
6. Macadamia Nuts
These nuts are highly toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, tremors, and an increased heart rate. They’re often found in cookies and other baked goods.
7. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some baked goods, xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels in dogs, leading to seizures or liver failure.
8. Dairy Products
Many pets are lactose intolerant, so giving them cheese, cream, or other dairy-based dishes can result in stomach upset, including diarrhea and bloating.
9. Caffeinated Beverages
Coffee, tea, and energy drinks contain caffeine, which is toxic to pets. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include hyperactivity, rapid breathing, and heart palpitations.
10. Desserts with Nutmeg
Nutmeg, commonly used in holiday pies and desserts, contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and seizures in pets if ingested in large amounts.
What to Offer Instead?
If you want to include your pet in the holiday festivities, there are plenty of pet-safe alternatives! Plain, cooked pumpkin or sweet potato, a small piece of unseasoned poultry, or even a store-bought pet-friendly treat can make your furry friend feel included without the risk. Try our single ingredient USDA-grade beef jerky our our preservative-free turkey meatballs if you're looking for a recommendation!
The Bottom Line
While it’s tempting to share holiday cheer in the form of food, it’s best to stick to pet-safe options and avoid feeding them directly from your plate. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian before offering any human food to your pet. A little caution can go a long way in keeping your four-legged family members happy and healthy this holiday season.