As pet owners, we all want to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. One way to do that is by being aware of the foods that are toxic to pets. Some foods that are safe for humans to eat can be extremely dangerous or even deadly for pets. Yes, you do have to say ‘no’ to those puppy dog eyes with some foods! You might be wondering, “well, what foods are dangerous to dogs and other household pets?”; well, we’ve compiled a guide to some of the most common toxic household foods for pets:
1. Chocolate:
Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for pets. It contains caffeine and a chemical called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Dogs eating chocolate may experience symptoms of chocolate poisoning including vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
2. Grapes and raisins:
Grapes and raisins can be poisonous to dogs and can cause kidney failure. They contain tartaric acid which cannot be metabolized by dogs and cats. Symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and lethargy.
3. Onions and garlic:
Is garlic bad for dogs and other pets? Onions and garlic can cause anemia in dogs and cats. They contain a compound called thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells. Symptoms of onion or garlic toxicity include weakness, vomiting, and rapid breathing.
4. Xylitol:
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is often found in sugar-free gum, candy, and other products. Xylitol will spike your dogs blood sugar triggering a large release of insulin which lowers their blood sugar dangerously quickly. This quick change in blood sugar can cause seizures, liver failure, and even death.
5. Avocado:
Avocado contains a chemical called persin, which can be toxic to dogs and cats in large amounts. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart congestion.
6. Alcohol:
Alcohol can be extremely dangerous for pets, even in small amounts. Dogs who have ingested alcohol will begin to show effects within 30-60 minutes and can result in vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even death.
7. Macadamia nuts:
Macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs. In severe cases, they can also cause lethargy, muscle weakness, and even paralysis. While the exact substance within the macadamia nut that causes these symptoms is unknown it is definitely best to steer clear of these when it comes to your household pets.
8. Caffeine:
While humans may ingest a cup of coffee or a soda on the daily, dogs and cats are much more sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Caffeine is toxic to pets and can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.
9. Cooked bones:
Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious damage to a pet’s digestive system. They can also get stuck in a pet’s throat, leading to choking.
While this list may answer “what is toxic food for dogs and cats?”; It’s important to remember that this is not a complete list of all toxic foods for pets. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health and safety.
Whether you have a Peak City Puppy sitter stay in your home, board your pet in one of our sitter’s homes, or just need drop in visits we will make sure your pet receives only the food and treats provided by, or recommended by you.
Interested in learning more about the dangers of nuts and their effect on dogs? Check out this next article here.
