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what your pet should never eat
How to know when people foods can be dangerous to pets.
If you suspect poison, call the pet poison helpline at 1-800-213-6680. See more at www.petpoisonhelpline.com
This page does not contain a complete list of potential pet toxins or health risks.
If you have any concerns or questions, please reach out to your veterinary team.
Human foods pets should never eat
- Alcohol in any form (beer, wine, etc.)
- Caffeine in any form (coffee, tea, soft drinks, etc.)
- Chicken bones and ribs, or other splintery bones
- Chocolate
- Garlic, onions, leeks, or chives (including cooked or powdered versions)
- Grapes and raisins
- Sugarless candy, gum, or toothpaste with Xylitol
- Yeasted dough (raw bread or pastry dough)
Human foods that are dangerous for dogs
- Hops (used in home brewing)
- Select kitchen spices, herbs, and baking soda
- Macadamia nuts, even in small amounts
- Moldy or spoiled food
- Pits from fruits like avocados, peaches, and plums
Household items that are dangerous for cats
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Parasite control for dogs containing permethrin
- Lilies of any type
- Antifreeze
- Bleach or other wet or sticky chemicals
What not to put in your pet’s food bowl
Some foods and human items can upset pet tummies. Other stuff can be actively dangerous for the pet you love.
Don’t share your meal with pets
It can feel natural to offer your pet a little nibble of whatever it is you’re eating. However, please remember that people food for dogs and cats isn’t a great idea.
People food isn’t designed for pet bodies, and it’s packed with calories, salt, sugar, and other stuff that can cause digestive upset. Some of these foods pass through their systems with minimal unpleasantness, but others may cause immediate health concerns. Be prepared to recognize danger signs so you can take quick action to help your pet.
How to tell if your pet’s been poisoned
Persistent garbage hounds can easily eat something they shouldn’t. As for cats, these famously finicky eaters may still chew houseplants or walk through something toxic and sticky that they’ll try to lick away.
If your cat or dog has been poisoned, they can show symptoms right away or hours or even days later. If your pet is showing any combination of these symptoms, don’t delay. Seek emergency veterinary care or call the pet poison hotline at 800-213-6680 now.
Symptoms and signs of poisoning in dogs and cats:
- Seizures, tremors
- Coughing, choking
- Unusual amounts of slobber, drool, or foaming at the mouth
- Labored breathing
- Low energy or lethargy
- Dilated pupils
- Blindness
- Difficulty walking (they may look drunk)
- Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
Mentioned in this article
Worried about your pet? Ping Pet Chat™!
Whether it's 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., connect with a real veterinary professional for immediate petcare advice. It's included in all Optimum Wellness Plans®!
Log in to start chattingHow Banfield can help with dog and cat diet and nutrition
What your pet eats can make a big difference to their health! Our vets can perform physical exams, run tests, and help you manage your pet’s food-related issues, including obesity, diabetes, and food allergies.
Get help managing pet food allergies. Do you think your pet’s immune system is reacting to certain ingredients in their food? We can help identify pet food allergies and work with you on management diets.
Does your pet have diabetes? Let’s work together! This includes everything from recommendations on what to feed your pet, how to manage their food and injection schedule, providing appropriate prescriptions, and showing you how to safely perform insulin injections for the pet you love.
We can help your pet reach a healthy weight. We've got advice on diet and exercise for both overweight and underweight pets. Does your pet have a mobility issue that makes it hard for them to exercise? We can help there, too.
