Holiday Foods To Keep Away From Your Pet

Our beloved pets are part of the family, and that usually means participating in holiday celebrations. However, pets have digestive systems that differ from those of humans. In addition, some foods, like chocolate, which many of us enjoy during the holidays, are toxic to many dogs. So, before you cut a slice of Aunt Mildred’s famous fruit cake for Luna, check out some of the popular holiday foods to keep away from your pet.

Popular Holiday Foods Toxic to Pets

These are some of the popular foods that you should avoid giving to your pet:

Chocolate

Number one on the list is chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both stimulants in the methylxanthine family. Dogs metabolize these compounds much more slowly than humans do, leading to a toxic buildup in their systems. The darker the chocolate (baker’s chocolate or dark chocolate), the higher its concentration and the more dangerous it is. So, be sure to keep holiday foods with chocolate away from your pet.

Grapes (including raisins)

While grapes and raisins may seem harmless, they contain tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate, which are toxic to dogs.  This fruit can cause rapid and severe acute kidney injury (AKI) in dogs, even if ingested in small amounts.

Garlic

Garlic, onions, chives, and leeks are members of the Allium family. These foods contain compounds (like N-propyl disulfide and thiosulfinates) that can damage your pet’s red blood cells, leading to a condition called anemia (a low red blood cell count). These vegetables, in powder, cooked, and raw forms, are not safe for pet consumption.

Almonds & Macadamia Nuts

Not all nuts are harmful, but macadamia nuts are uniquely toxic to dogs, causing a condition that affects their muscles and nervous system. The poisonous mechanism for almonds is less about unique toxicity and more about the potential for pancreatitis (due to fat) and obstruction.

Raw Dough 

Unbaked dough containing yeast can be dangerous if ingested. If your pet snags your homemade roll before it is baked, it can actually expand in their stomach! So, you will need to contact your vet or pet hospital immediately.

Alcoholic Foods

Alcoholic foods are highly toxic to pets. Even a small amount can cause them to become intoxicated. It’s not just beverages; some desserts and holiday candy also contain alcohol, so keep that rum cake, fruit cake, and candy away from your pet.

Dairy Products 

Like many humans, most adult dogs and cats are lactose intolerant. This condition means they produce less of the lactase enzyme needed to digest milk sugar. Ingesting dairy products, like milk, cheese, and even ice cream, can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset.

Poultry Skins & Fatty Foods

Excessively fatty, greasy foods (like turkey or chicken skin, gravy, trimmings, or rich sauces) can overload a pet’s pancreas, leading to a painful and potentially fatal condition called pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

Chicken Bones

Although tempting to pets, cooked bones (especially poultry) are brittle and can easily splinter into sharp fragments. These shards can cause cuts in the mouth or digestive tract, lead to choking, or cause a severe blockage requiring emergency surgery. Even raw bones carry risks of broken teeth or obstruction.

Salty Holiday Snacks

Avoid sharing pretzels, potato chips, and other salty foods with your pet, as they can cause salt poisoning (hypernatremia). This condition can become an emergency if the pet doesn’t drink enough water to counteract the sodium levels. 

If you suspect your pet has eaten a toxic holiday food, act immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital right away. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Safe Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with Your Pet

Chances are, your pets enjoy the holidays just as much as you do.

So, here are some fun and safe ways to celebrate the spirit of the season with your dog or cat:

• Pet-Friendly Holiday Treats: Instead of table scraps, buy or make treats formulated specifically for your pet. Many recipes use dog-safe ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, or plain turkey breast.
• Create a Safe Space: With the hustle, bustle, and noise of holiday guests, set up a comfortable, quiet space away from the action where your pet can relax when overwhelmed.
• Holiday Photos: Dress your pet up in a festive, comfortable, pet-safe bandana or sweater and include them in the family’s holiday card photos.
• Pet-Proof Your Holiday Decor: Use pet-friendly decorations. Keep tinsel, glass ornaments, holiday lights, and toxic plants (like mistletoe and holly) entirely out of reach to keep pets safe during the holidays.

Give Your Pet the Gift of a Wellness Exam This Holiday Season

If you suspect food poisoning or if your pet is feeling unwell, don’t hesitate to contact Highland Pet Hospital as soon as possible! Annual wellness exams are the single best way to catch health issues in the early, treatable stages. This holiday season, give your pet the gift of a wellness exam. It’s a gift that keeps giving. Call today to schedule an appointment for your dog or cat.