As the Thanksgiving season approaches, it’s important for pet owners to learn which delicious Thanksgiving foods could be harmful to our beloved pets. It can be tempting to share our food with them, but please exercise caution. Many traditional Thanksgiving foods can be harmful to pets, leading to upset stomachs—or worse, emergency vet visits.
In this post, we’ll share the top 10 foods your pet should avoid, pet-friendly alternatives, and tips on keeping your pet safe from accidental snacking. The holiday season is about spreading joy, so let’s make sure it’s a joyful one for all.
Turkey Skin and Fat
While small pieces of lean, cooked turkey can be fine, the skin and fat are not safe for pets.
- Why it’s dangerous: Fatty foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs and cats, leading to painful inflammation.
- Safe alternative: Give your pet a small piece of unseasoned, boneless turkey breast instead. Avoid dark meat as they are much higher in fat and calories.
Stuffing and Seasonings
Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and herbs, which are toxic to pets.
- Why it’s dangerous: Vegetables (like onions and garlic) can damage red blood cells in pets.
- Safe alternative: Serve them a pet-safe treat or a small amount of cooked or canned pumpkin (without spices).
Gravy
This rich topping is a no-go for pets.
- Why it’s dangerous: Gravy is often high in fat and salt, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset and even pancreatitis.
- Safe alternative: Skip the gravy for pets and stick to plain, unseasoned food.
Mashed Potatoes with Butter
Mashed potatoes are typically loaded with butter, cream, and sometimes garlic.
- Why it’s dangerous: Dairy products can cause digestive issues for pets, especially if they’re lactose intolerant.
Safe alternative: Offer plain, cooked potatoes without any seasoning or dairy products
Cranberry Sauce
Store-bought cranberry sauce is full of sugar and sometimes contains artificial sweeteners.
- Why it’s dangerous: Excessive sugar can lead to an upset stomach, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to pets.
- Safe alternative: If your pet likes berries, a few fresh cranberries or blueberries can be safe in moderation.
Bread Dough
Raw bread dough can expand in a pet’s stomach, leading to serious issues.
- Why it’s dangerous: Dough expands as it ferments, which can cause bloating and alcohol poisoning.
- Safe alternative: Serve a small, cooked piece of plain white or wheat bread is generally okay if you’d like to share some carbs with your pet.
Chocolate Desserts
Chocolate is a popular holiday treat but is EXTREMELY toxic to pets.
- Why it’s dangerous: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats, especially dark chocolate.
- Safe alternative: Give your pet a pet-friendly treat instead, like a pumpkin-flavored dog biscuit or cat treat.
Nuts
Certain nuts, like macadamia nuts, are highly toxic to pets.
- Why it’s dangerous: Nuts are high in fat and can lead to pancreatitis, and macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, fever, and lethargy as the initial warning signs and worsen overtime.
- Safe alternative: If your pet needs a snack, stick to a few safe pet treats.
Alcohol
Alcohol isn’t just in drinks—it can be in food, too.
- Why it’s dangerous: Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for pets, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. This can affect their pet’s gastrointestinal (GI) system.
- Safe alternative: Stick to fresh water or a pet-safe broth if you want your pet to feel festive.
Bones
Turkey and chicken bones can splinter and cause choking hazards.
- Why it’s dangerous: Bones can break into sharp pieces, potentially causing digestive tract injuries.
- Safe alternative: Look for specially-made dog chews if you want your dog to have something to gnaw on.
How to Ensure Your Pet Doesn’t Accidentally Digest These Unsafe Foods:
Keep Food Out of Reach:
- Never leave a plate unattended: If you need to step away from the table, always place your plate on a high countertop or inside a cabinet to ensure your pet can’t access it.
- Purchase a gate: Consider buying a gate for your kitchen or dining area if your pet tends to roam while food is being prepared or served.
Your pet may not love it, but remember, it’s only for a short time and is for their safety!
Monitor Trash and Leftovers:
- Secure trash cans: Make sure your trash can has a lid and is out of your pet’s reach to prevent them from rummaging through harmful scraps.
- Store leftovers properly: After dinner, store leftovers in the refrigerator or in tightly sealed containers to keep your pet safe.
Pet-Proof Containers:
- Invest in pet-proof containers: Consider using pet-proof containers for foods left out, such as pies and cookies, so your pet can’t open or reach them.
It’s natural to want to include your pet in the Thanksgiving celebrations, but some foods are better left off their plates. By being mindful of what you serve, you’ll help keep your pet happy and healthy all season long.
Please Note: Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best food options for your pet.
Wishing you and your furry friend a happy and joyful Thanksgiving holiday!
For more pet tips, check out our other blog posts here.
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