Foods Cats and Dogs Can't Eat: Pet Safety Guide.
"In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln
Our cats and dogs bring us so much joy, so we must keep them safe. They like to explore with their mouths, which can lead to eating things they shouldn't. This guide will show you which foods poisonous to pets to keep them safe and happy.
Introduction to Toxic Foods for Pets
Pets often like human food, but some treats can be very dangerous for them. Chocolate, for example, has theobromine which is bad for pets. It can make them vomit, have diarrhea, seizures, and even kill them.
Keeping pets safe is very important. Foods like sultanas, grapes, raisins, and currants can cause kidney failure. There have been cases of dogs and cats getting very sick from eating these foods.
It's not just chocolate or grapes that are dangerous. Foods like avocados have persin, which is toxic. Raw yeast dough can also cause serious stomach problems. And, alcohol can harm pets even in small amounts.
To keep pets safe, avoid giving them fatty foods like bacon or hot chips. These can make them very sick. Cooked bones can also be dangerous because they can splinter and cause serious stomach problems. Make sure to keep dangerous foods away from pets to keep them safe.
Common Household Foods Dangerous to Pets
Knowing what foods are bad for cats and dogs is key to their health. Many everyday items can be harmful to your pets.
Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine
Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine are bad for pets. They have methylxanthines which are toxic. Pets can get sick with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, fast heart rate, shaking, and seizures.
Dark chocolate is especially dangerous.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are bad for pets. They have tartaric acid that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Some dogs have even died from eating just a few raisins, while others were okay after eating a lot.
This shows why it's important to keep these fruits away from pets.
Alcohol and Yeast Dough
Alcohol and yeast dough are also bad for pets. Drinking alcohol can make pets drunk, upset their stomachs, and even cause coma or death. Yeast dough can also be dangerous because it can make pets very sick with gas.
| Food Item | Potential Risk |
|---|---|
| Chocolate, Coffee, Caffeine | Methylxanthines toxicity leading to vomiting, increased heart rate, seizures |
| Grapes, Raisins | Kidney failure |
| Alcohol, Yeast Dough | Intoxication, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory distress |
Stopping pets from eating these foods can make them much safer. Always keep these *foods to avoid for pets* away from them.
Vegetables and Herbs Harmful to Cats and Dogs
Adding vegetables to your pet's diet might seem like a good idea, but some can be harmful. It's important to know the difference between safe and unsafe options. This helps avoid risks to your pets.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Onions, garlic, and chives are common in cooking but dangerous for pets. They can irritate your pet's stomach and even damage their red blood cells. Just a little bit can cause anemia, which is a serious issue.
Mustard Seeds and Tomato Green Parts
Mustard seeds and the green parts of tomatoes are also harmful. Mustard seeds can upset your pet's stomach a lot. The green parts of tomatoes have toxins that can be dangerous. Keep these away from your pets to keep them safe.
Knowing about pet food dangers is key when planning your pet's diet. Some veggies and herbs might seem safe but can cause health problems. Following guidelines, like keeping veggies to 10% of daily calories, helps keep your pets healthy.
| Vegetable | Calorie Serving Size | Health Benefits | Warnings and Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artichoke | 5-6 calories per piece | Antioxidants, Fiber | Moderation recommended, can cause upset stomach |
| Asparagus | 3-4 calories per spear | Vitamins A, C, K | Serve in small amounts, can cause GI issues |
| Beets | 4-5 calories per beet | Fiber, Folate | Slight moderation, may cause stomach upset |
| Carrots | 3-4 calories per slice | Beta carotene, Fiber | Generally safe but in moderation |
| Green Beans | 1 calorie per bean | Vitamin K, Fiber | Safe but should not exceed 10% of diet |
The University of Missouri Small Animal Clinical Nutrition Service says human foods should be less than 10% of a cat's diet. This helps prevent obesity and health problems. The ASPCA lists many human foods, including veggies and herbs, that are toxic to cats. Knowing these dangers and following guidelines keeps your pets safe.
Dangers of Xylitol and Artificial Sweeteners
Xylitol and other artificial sweeteners are harmful to pets. Found in gum, candies, and baked goods, xylitol can be deadly. It causes a quick insulin spike in pets, leading to low blood sugar and liver problems. Pets show symptoms like vomiting, tiredness, and trouble walking. In bad cases, they might have seizures. It's important for pet owners to know these risks.
Xylitol Toxicity
Xylitol is very dangerous for pets, especially dogs. Just a little can cause big health problems.
| Artificial Sweetener | Potential Health Impact |
|---|---|
| Xylitol | Life-threatening drop in blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, and potential death |
| Aspartame | Can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort |
| Sucralose | May lead to gastrointestinal upset |
| Erythritol | Generally safe, but can cause gastrointestinal symptoms in large quantities |
| Stevia | Safe but may cause diarrhea if consumed in large amounts |
| Monk Fruit | Non-toxic but should still be avoided |
| Saccharin | Causes gastrointestinal upset, with long-term effects not extensively studied |
It's important to keep products with artificial sweeteners away from pets. Xylitol is one of the most dangerous harmful foods for pets. Owners should be careful with storage and avoid these items.
What are the Foods That Cats and Dogs Can't Eat?
It's key for every pet owner to know what are the foods that cats and dogs can't eat. Many foods safe for humans are bad for pets and can lead to serious health problems. Foods like milk, dairy, macadamia nuts, and other nuts are especially dangerous.
Milk and Dairy Products
Milk and dairy can be tough on pets. Cats and dogs often can't handle lactose, leading to stomach upset and diarrhea. It's a mistake to think all pets can safely drink milk. In truth, it's a toxic food for cats and dogs that can upset their stomachs.
Macadamia Nuts and Other Nuts
Macadamia nuts are very bad for dogs. They can cause vomiting, high body temperature, and even pancreatitis because of their high fat and oil. Other nuts like almonds and walnuts are also risky. These nuts can cause serious stomach problems and health issues, so pet owners should be aware of what are the foods that cats and dogs can't eat.
Plants and Fruits to Avoid for Pet Safety
Keeping your pets safe means being careful about what they eat. Many foods are harmful to pets and can be found in homes and gardens. These foods can harm their health.
Avocados are a big worry because they have persin, which can make dogs very sick. Grapes and raisins are also bad for dogs and can cause kidney failure. Cherries have cyanide, which is bad for pets.
Cucumbers and pumpkin are good for pets in small amounts. Cucumbers are low in fat but full of vitamins. Pumpkin can help dogs with stomach issues. But, mango pits have cyanide and are too sweet for dogs.
Raspberries and strawberries are okay but should be given carefully. Raspberries have xylitol, so don't give too much. Strawberries are sweet and can clean a dog's teeth. Oranges are good for dogs but don't give them the peel.
- Fruits Safe for Dogs (30 listed): Apples, apricots, blueberries, etc.
- Unsafe Fruits (5 listed): Avocado, bananas, blackberries & raspberries, tomatoes, cherries, grapes, lemons & limes, wild berries
- Safe Vegetables (7 listed): Kale, carrots, green beans, broccoli, beets, yams & sweet potatoes, butternut squash
- Harmful Vegetables (3 listed): Garlic, onions, shallots, chives, mushrooms, rhubarb
| Plants Toxic to Pets | Effect if Ingested |
|---|---|
| Avocado | Vomiting, diarrhea |
| Grapes & Raisins | Acute kidney failure |
| Cherries | Disrupts cellular oxygen transport |
| Mango (pit) | Cyanide poisoning |
| Raspberries | Contains xylitol (Limit intake) |
Knowing what foods are bad for pets and watching what they eat can keep them safe. Always keep harmful plants away from pets to protect their health and safety.
Emergency Measures if Your Pet Ingests Harmful Foods
If your pet eats something harmful, act fast. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save your pet's life. First, figure out how much of the harmful food they ate. Then, call a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Every minute counts.
Immediate Steps
When your pet eats a toxic substance, take these steps right away:
- Assess the Situation: Find out how much of the harmful food your pet ate.
- Contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: Call (888) 426-4435 right away for expert advice.
- Monitor Your Pet: Watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, or trouble moving.
- Contact Local Veterinary Services: Have the number of the nearest vet or clinic ready for emergencies.
- Consult the Pet Poison Helpline: You can also call (855) 764-7661 for help, starting at $59 per call.
Knowing the signs of poisoning, like vomiting or seizures, is key. Foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol are especially dangerous. They need quick action.
Being ready for emergencies is crucial. Keep a list of emergency numbers and know where the nearest vet is. Quick action after poisoning can really help your pet.
| Emergency Contact | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center | (888) 426-4435 |
| Pet Poison Helpline | (855) 764-7661 |
Safe Treat Alternatives for Your Pets
Many foods can harm your pets, but there are safe treats you can give them. Lean meats like chicken or turkey are great, as long as they're cooked well and without fat or bones. These meats are full of protein, which is good for your pet's health. Make sure to give them plain meat without any seasonings or additives.
Certain fruits and vegetables are also good for pets. Apples, bananas, and blueberries are safe, but remove seeds, stems, and leaves first. Carrots and green beans are also good, and you can serve them raw or lightly steamed. These foods give pets important vitamins and minerals and help keep them at a healthy weight.
Other safe treats include cooked white rice and pasta. These can add bulk to your pet's diet without extra calories or fats. Just make sure they're plain, without any sauces or seasonings that could be harmful.
Always talk to your vet before trying new treats on your pet. They can give advice that fits your pet's needs, helping keep their diet balanced and healthy. Remember, your pet's safety and health are the most important things. Making smart choices about their treats is key to their overall well-being.
FAQ
Why is chocolate dangerous for pets?
Chocolate has methylxanthines that can make pets very sick. They can vomit or even have seizures. Keep chocolate away from your pets.
Can pets drink coffee or sodas?
No, pets should not have coffee or sodas. They can make pets very sick. They might get hyper, shake, or even have seizures.
Why are grapes and raisins toxic to dogs?
Grapes and raisins have something called tartaric acid. This can make a dog's kidneys fail. Don't give grapes or raisins to your dogs.
What happens if a pet consumes alcohol or yeast dough?
Pets can get very sick from alcohol and yeast dough. They might breathe hard, have trouble moving, and other serious problems. Keep these things away from pets.
Are onions, garlic, and chives harmful to pets?
Yes, onions, garlic, and chives can make pets very sick. They can upset their stomachs and harm their blood cells. Keep these away from pets.
Can mustard seeds and tomato green parts affect pets?
Yes, pets can get sick from mustard seeds and the green parts of tomatoes. They can have stomach problems and other health issues. Make sure pets don't get to these.
What is xylitol toxicity in pets?
Xylitol is a sweetener that can make pets very sick. It can cause their insulin to go up too much, leading to low blood sugar and liver failure. Pets can get very sick. Keep all xylitol products away from pets.
Are milk and dairy products safe for pets?
Many pets can't handle milk and dairy products. They can get very sick from them. It's best not to give these to your pets.
Why are macadamia nuts and other nuts dangerous for pets?
Macadamia nuts and other nuts like almonds and walnuts are bad for pets. They have a lot of fat and oil that can make pets very sick. Don't give these nuts to your pets.
What plants and fruits should I keep away from my pets?
Keep avocados, fruits with seeds like peaches and plums, and citrus plants away from pets. These can make pets very sick. Make sure pets can't get to these items.
What immediate steps should I take if my pet ingests something harmful?
If your pet eats something bad, check how much they ate and call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, and trouble moving. Act fast.
Are there safe treat alternatives for my pets?
Yes, there are safe treats for pets. Lean meats, some fruits without seeds, and veggies like carrots and green beans are good. Make sure treats are plain and cooked well.
