7 Foods to Avoid and 7 Foods Pets Love

Our pets enjoy food treats just like we do. And while most pets can have occasional treats, eating them too often can cause gastrointestinal issues. Just like the treats we enjoy, moderation is key! 

Foods Pets Should Avoid

1. Alcohol – Even seemingly harmless amounts can be lethal for pets.  
2. Chocolate – This tasty human treat can cause serious health issues for dogs, even in small amounts. Chocolate toxicity can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, heart failure, and seizures. 
3. Cooked bones – Bones can splinter, which can cause intestinal perforations when ingested. They can also become lodged in a pet’s intestines, which could require emergency surgery. 
4. Macadamia nuts – It’s unknown what about these nuts causes toxicity in dogs, so it’s best to avoid them.  
5. Onions, garlic, and chives – These foods contain a chemical called N-propyl disulfide, which is extremely toxic to dogs. When ingested, the chemicals damage your pet’s red blood cells which can lead to severe anemia. Pets who become anemic are at-risk for organ damage, organ failure, and death.  
6. Raisins and grapes – Not all dogs react to these fruits, but they cause toxicity in some dogs, including kidney failure. 
7. Xylitol – This artificial sweetener is used in gum, baked goods, peanut butter, and many products designed for people with diabetes due to its low glycemic index and low-calorie content. While it may be safe for humans to consume, it is toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure.  

Foods Pets Can Enjoy

1. Carrots – These tasty veggies are low-calorie, crunchy and most dogs (and some cats) enjoy them as treats. 
2. Cheese – High in protein, but also high in calories and fat, so offer it to your pet sparingly. If your pet is sensitive to lactose, consider aged cheeses like parmesan and cheddar which contain smaller amounts of lactose.  
3. Whole, cooked eggs – Packed with protein and essential fatty acids, eggs are also high in cholesterol, so limit how often they’re offered. 
4. Green beans – An excellent and healthy treat! Rinse off canned green beans before giving them to your pet to decrease the sodium content. 
5. Marshmallows – Low-calorie, hypoallergenic treats that are also good for hiding and administering medications to your pet. 
6. Peanut butter – Most dogs love this treat, but it’s important to read the label to ensure there is no xylitol (an artificial sweetener) as that can be toxic to pets.  
7. Salmon – The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can boost your pet’s immune system and help their coats look shiny. Always serve it to your pet well-cooked and double-check that all bones have been removed. Raw and undercooked salmon can contain the neorickettsia helminthoeca parasite, which can be fatal.

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