Holiday Safe Foods for Dogs and Cats
As the holiday season approaches, many families prepare delicious meals to share with loved ones, and it’s tempting to include pets in these festive traditions. However, it’s crucial to know which holiday foods are safe for your pets and which to avoid. Understanding safe treats can help you enjoy a pet-friendly holiday while avoiding a trip to the vet. In this blog, we’ll answer common questions, like “can dogs eat turkey?”, and provide tips on safely sharing holiday treats with your pets.
If you have questions about safe holiday foods for your pet, please call Altadena Pet Hospital at (626) 798-0738 or book an appointment online.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey? How to Safely Share This Holiday Favorite
Turkey is often the centerpiece of holiday feasts, and many pet owners wonder, “Can dogs eat turkey?” Yes, dogs can eat plain, cooked turkey in moderation, but you should avoid adding any seasoning, spices, or skin that could upset your dog’s stomach or harm them. Turkey skin often contains added salt, garlic, or onions, which are toxic to dogs. Small pieces of unseasoned, white meat turkey can be a delightful treat for your pet, but remember, moderation is key.
Preparing Turkey for Your Pet
If you plan to share turkey with your pet, follow these steps to ensure it’s safe:
- Remove the skin – Turkey skin often absorbs spices and fat that can lead to digestive issues.
- Debone thoroughly – Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking hazards or digestive tract injuries.
- Avoid the fatty parts – Fatty portions like dark meat can lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis.
For a safe serving size, give your pet a small portion relative to their size, and be mindful not to replace their regular meal with holiday treats.
Holiday Side Dishes: Which Are Safe for Pets?
Holiday meals often include side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce, which may seem pet-friendly but can contain hidden ingredients that are unsafe. Here’s a guide to commonly served sides and whether they’re safe for dogs and cats.
Can Dogs and Cats Eat Mashed Potatoes?
Plain mashed potatoes, free of butter, milk, or seasoning, can be safe in small amounts for both dogs and cats. However, mashed potatoes served at the holiday table often contain butter, cream, and garlic, which can cause digestive upset. Offer a plain, unseasoned spoonful if you’d like your pet to join the meal, but avoid sharing any potatoes prepared with additional ingredients.
Green Beans and Sweet Potatoes
Green beans are generally safe and even healthy for pets. If they’re cooked without seasoning, green beans make a low-calorie, nutritious treat for dogs and cats. Similarly, sweet potatoes can be safe for pets if served plain. Many holiday recipes for sweet potatoes, however, include ingredients like butter, brown sugar, or marshmallows, which are unsafe. Plain, baked sweet potato bites are best if you want to share this holiday favorite with your pet.
Foods to Avoid Sharing With Pets During the Holidays
While some holiday foods can be enjoyed in moderation, others should be kept out of reach to ensure your pet’s safety. Here’s a rundown of foods to avoid and why they’re harmful to dogs and cats.
Avoid Chocolate and Sweets
Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats and should be entirely avoided. Even small amounts can cause symptoms ranging from vomiting to severe reactions. Other sweet treats, especially those containing the sugar substitute xylitol, are also extremely harmful. Xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and lead to liver failure in pets, so make sure to keep all sweets and candies safely stored out of reach.
Garlic, Onions, and Other Alliums
Commonly found in stuffing, casseroles, and sauces, garlic and onions are toxic to pets. These ingredients contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even small amounts of garlic or onions can cause adverse effects, so it’s best to keep foods containing these ingredients away from your pets entirely.
Alcohol and Caffeinated Beverages
Alcohol and caffeine are highly toxic to pets and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even more severe reactions. Any alcoholic or caffeinated beverage should be kept far from your pet’s reach, and ensure any dishes prepared with alcohol (like certain sauces) are not shared with pets.
How To Prepare a Pet-Friendly Holiday Meal
If you’d like to make the holidays extra special for your pets, consider preparing a pet-friendly version of your holiday meal. Creating a simple, unseasoned plate of pet-safe ingredients is a great way to include them without risking their health.
Choosing Safe Ingredients
The safest options include plain, cooked turkey (without skin or bones), steamed green beans, and a small portion of plain, baked sweet potato. Avoid sauces, seasonings, and high-fat ingredients. This way, your pet can enjoy a treat without the risk of harmful ingredients.
Serving Suggestions for Dogs and Cats
For dogs, portion size depends on their weight. Small dogs should only receive a small taste, while larger dogs can handle a bit more. For cats, keep the portion sizes tiny and avoid overfeeding. Treats should never replace a balanced meal, so only offer small portions and avoid letting your pet overindulge.
Signs Your Pet May Have Eaten Something Unsafe
If your pet accidentally eats holiday foods not meant for them, it’s essential to recognize signs of distress. Here are common symptoms that could indicate your pet ate something harmful.
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Tremors or seizures
- Loss of appetite
If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect your pet has ingested something dangerous, call Altadena Pet Hospital for immediate assistance.
Celebrate the Season Safely With Pet-Friendly Treats
The holidays are a time for family, friends, and cherished moments, and your pets can be a part of the celebrations with safe and thoughtful food choices. By knowing which foods are safe, you can enjoy a worry-free season, knowing your pet is protected from the risks of holiday treats. Remember to prepare their treats carefully, avoid harmful ingredients, and, if in doubt, consult with your veterinarian before sharing. If you’re unsure about any holiday food or have questions about holiday-safe treats, contact Altadena Pet Hospital at (626) 798-0738, or book an appointment online to discuss your pet’s health needs.