Dr. Brett Hogberg, DVM
Owner Veterinarian Arista Dallas
The holidays are a time for family, food, and festive cheer, but not all holiday treats are safe for our pets. From rich foods to tempting table scraps, many traditional dishes can cause serious health issues for cats and dogs.
Holiday Foods to Avoid
Many popular holiday foods can be dangerous, even in small amounts. Avoid feeding your pets:
- Bones: Cooked turkey or ham bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal injury.
- Onions, garlic, and leeks: Found in gravies and stuffings, these can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
- Fatty foods: Rich meats, buttery sides, and gravy can trigger pancreatitis.
- Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol: All are toxic to pets and can lead to vomiting, seizures, or worse.
- Macadamia nuts, grapes, and raisins: Even small amounts can cause serious illness.
- Spices like nutmeg: Often in desserts, nutmeg can cause tremors or seizures.
- Xylitol: Often found in sugar-free candy and gum. Remember to check for xylitol as an ingredient, as it can cause low blood sugar and liver damage.
Safe Alternatives
Want to include your pet in the holiday meal? Offer small portions of plain, unseasoned foods such as:
- Cooked turkey breast or chicken (no bones or skin)
- Steamed carrots, green beans, or peas
- Plain pumpkin or sweet potato (no sugar or butter)
Always serve these foods in moderation, and stick to your pet’s regular diet as much as possible to avoid digestive upset.
Holiday Safety Tips
Keep food out of reach: Don’t leave plates or trash unattended where pets can sneak a bite. Also watch for skewers or toothpicks used for food or hors d’oeuvres.
- Avoid table feeding: Even a small taste from your plate could contain harmful ingredients.
- Create a pet-safe zone: Give your pet a quiet space away from guests, noise, and food temptations.
- Stranger danger: Always make sure collars and ID tags are up to date in case your pet slips out
- Watch for warning signs: If your pet shows vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian right away.
Keep Thanksgiving safe, fun, and stress-free for the whole family. If you do have a holiday emergency, your local Arista Advanced Pet Care is here to help 24/7.
