Food to Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving

An image featuring a cat licking its lips while looking at a Thanksgiving feast spread out on a table. The table is adorned with a variety of tempting foods, including turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. The cat's longing expression emphasizes the importance of keeping these foods away from pets during Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year! It’s full of family, friends, and FOOD! There are always plenty of scraps and leftovers to go around. And we always want to share a little something with our animal companions so they can celebrate too! But what is safe for them to eat? Let’s break it down!
 
Here are some foods that they shouldn’t eat! And the reasons why:

1. Turkey Bones:

Cooked bones can break into sharp pieces that may injure your pet’s mouth, throat, stomach, or intestines. Avoid giving them turkey bones.

2. Fatty Foods:

Ham, turkey skin, and gravy are often high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis in pets. It’s best to keep these fatty items away from them.

3. Onions, Scallions, and Garlic:

These vegetables contain substances that can destroy red blood cells and cause anemia in pets. Keep dishes containing onions, scallions, or garlic out of reach.

4. Nuts:

Nuts are high in fat and can cause digestive issues and pancreatitis in pets. Macadamia nuts and walnuts are especially toxic and can be fatal if ingested by dogs or cats.

5. Chocolate:

Chocolate contains theobromine, which pets can’t efficiently digest. Excessive consumption can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, rapid heart rate, and even seizures.

6. Cookies, Pies, and Sweets:

Excessive sugar can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and even diabetes in pets. Be cautious of sugar-free treats containing xylitol, as it can cause serious blood sugar drops and liver failure in dogs.

7. Alcoholic Beverages:

Alcohol can be extremely dangerous for pets, causing drops in blood sugar, blood pressure, and body temperature. It can lead to seizures and respiratory failure in severe cases.

It’s also best to avoid giving your pets foods like stuffing, mashed potatoes, casseroles, and salads, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to them.

What can I share with my pets?

If you want to share a special treat with your furry friends, consider safe alternatives such as turkey breast, plain/cooked sweet potato cubes, plain green beans, and plain pumpkin. Additionally, Merrick offers a line of Thanksgiving meals specifically designed for pets.

Remember to share this important information with others who have animal companions to ensure their pets’ safety during the holiday season. Have a happy and safe holiday with your two-legged and four-legged friends and family!

Share this post

Picture of Brandy Emmert

Brandy Emmert

Hi! I'm the proud owner of Four Seasons For Paws, a renowned pet care company that provides dog training, dog walking, pet sitting, and home security checks. I am passionate about leading a team of certified, knowledgeable, compassionate pet care specialists and trainers who love pouring their hearts into caring for our animal companions. I love having the opportunity to provide complete peace of mind for so many pet parents in our community! And I love sharing advice and educating pet parents on any and all things that can enhance their lives, and the lives of their pets. ❤️

We use cookies to make your visit as delightful as a playful pup.  By continuing to explore, you’re giving us a wag of approval!