GET TO KNOW THE HUMAN THINGS THAT COULD POISON YOUR PET.
Don’t touch that. Or lick that. Or eat that.
Pets are curious creatures and as their humans, it’s important to be aware of the things we may have around that could harm them. There are surprising, everyday food items and plants that can actually poison your pet. We put together a list of some of the most common toxic foods for pets. There’s also a list of yummy alternatives because there’s so much that they can enjoy!
TRY THIS
NOT THAT
Human Peanut Butter
Many types of peanut butter (and other foods) contain Xylitol, which can cause insulin release and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in most species, which can lead to liver failure. Initial signs of toxicosis include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to seizures and elevated liver enzymes and liver failure can be seen within a few days.
Nuts
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs. Signs usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last approximately 24 to 48 hours.
While most other nuts, including almonds, pecans, and cashews, are ok in small amounts, they do contain high amounts of oils and fats. The fats can cause vomiting, diarrhea and potentially pancreatitis in pets.
Caffeine Drinks or Alcohol
Chocolate, coffee and caffeine products all contain substances called methylxanthines. These can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death in pets.
Alcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death. Under no circumstances should your pet be given any alcohol.
If you suspect that your pet has ingested alcohol, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
Onions, Garlic, Chives
Kind of surprising, right? These vegetables can
can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage and anemia in pets. They are usually accidentally fed when pets get a taste of our soups, stews, sauces, casseroles and other dishes that may be seasoned or garnished with them.
Raw food, made specially for pets.
Raw pet food can balance your pet’s nutritional need and is created under strict safety standards. The best brands have thoughtfully sourced proteins (no hormones or antibiotics), high standards for handling raw meat and species appropriate recipes for cats and dogs.
Our favorite raw brands include:
Raw & Undercooked Meat, Meant for Humans
The meat you purchase for you and your family at the grocery store is intended to be cooked as it may contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli.
Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Raw egg whites also contain an enzyme called avidin that decreases the absorption of biotin (a B vitamin), which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Egg whites should be cooked before feeding.
Pet food companies have multiple levels of safety procedures and checks in place to avoid bacteria reaching your home. Unlike human food, pet food has a zero-tolerance policy for pathogens in raw food.
House Plants
Look but don’t touch. Many plant species are toxic to pets. This includes leaves, flowers, roots and even pollen. Check out a more comprehensive list.
Milk
Because pets can’t easily break down lactose, regular cow milk and many dairy-based products can cause an upset stomach. Flavored dairy products may too much sugar for pets to eat safely.
Remember, before you feed your pet, be sure to do your research. If you have any questions, come visit us in store to talk with one of our Pet Foodies or speak to your veterinarian.