Stuffing, ham, and other foods not to feed your pet on Thanksgiving
Nov 27, 2024
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Thanksgiving may be a day of feast-ivities; however, veterinarians caution against over-sharing with pets as several holiday staples have the potential to make them sick.
According to animal specialists, Black Friday is one of the busiest days for veterinary emergency rooms - and it's not because of shopping exhaustion.
Although there are several food items pets can consume safely, some of the most popular dishes can leave them in terrible pain and others could even lead to death.
Here's what not to feed your pet, according to animal experts:
Turkey skin, gravy, butter and other fatty foods
Can cause pancreatitis
Ham
This much sodium can be toxic to dogs
Turkey bones
Can cause gastrointestinal tears
Grapes and raisins
Can cause kidney failure
Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, scallions and other foods of the Allium family
Can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, gastrointestinal distress, and anemia.
Stuffing
Often has above ingredients
Nutmeg
High doses can lead to hallucinations, confusion, raised heart rate, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and possibly seizures.
Chocolate
Toxic for pets due to the theobromine and caffeine stimulants that cats and dogs cannot metabolize.
Dough
Can cause severe life-threatening bloating
Sage
Some dogs have an adverse reaction
Sweets containing xylitol, found in many sugar-free products and baking ingredients including candies, cakes, and peanut butter.
Creates a spike in insulin levels, leading to a dramatic drop in blood sugar and causing acute liver failure.
Alcohol
Animals are also prone to alcohol poisoning
Certain nuts (macadamia, walnut, pistachio, almond, ect.)
Macadamia nuts can lead to nut poisoning, causing fever, tremors, muscle weakness, and loss of coordination.
Walnuts and pistachios are susceptible to mold and can create a fertile breeding ground for tremorgenic mycotoxins, which can be fatal.
Almonds and other smaller nuts can be a choking hazard.
What is okay to feed your pet:
White turkey meat
Mashed potatoes (without butter and spices)
Sweet potatoes
Pumpkin
Oats
Rice
Eggs
Cranberry sauce
Apple slices
Eggs
Squash
Nuts such as peanuts and cashews
Carrots
Peas
Green beans
Anyone who suspects their pet has eaten or drank something toxic is urged to contact their vet, local animal hospital, or the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately.