What Common Foods are Dangerous for My Pet?
When eating meals, it is hard to ignore the sweet begging eyes of our animals asking, “Can I have a bite? Just a little bite?” You may wonder what common foods are dangerous for our pets.
Here is a list of foods TO KEEP AWAY from your dog or cat:
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coma, and, in some cases, death. So next time you’re having a beer or any adult beverage and your dog is begging, don’t pour beer in the dog bowl. If you think your pet has ingested any alcohol, contact the Bredel Veterinary Clinic immediately.
Coffee, Tea and Caffeine
We all know how coffee makes us jittery and now we know that it can have the same effect on pets. Initially, the dog or cat will have increased heartrate and get restless. But, too much caffeine can increase blood pressure and cause the pet to have tremor or seizures.
Chocolate
Pets shouldn’t have chocolate. But why? Chocolate contains theobromine. This ingredient is very toxic to pets. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, abnormal heart rhythm, hyperactivity, and death.
Grapes
Grapes and raisins can cause liver and kidney problems in cats and dogs. Even a little bit can bring issues such as sluggishness and decreased appetite. Excessive amounts can cause kidney failure or death.
Greasy/Fatty Foods
We’ve all eaten a big juicy hamburger and saw our pets tail wagging excitedly at the sight and smell. However, don’t give in to those big eyes and the happy tail. These foods are not necessarily toxic on ingestion but can cause vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal issues, and pancreatitis. It is difficult to see our pets in pain, so don’t put them in that unnecessary position.
Fat/Bones
Be careful when you’re trimming the fat off of steak or throwing bones to your dog as it can cause liver and pancreatic issues. Even cooked bones can cause splinters or sharp pieces that can cut the digestive tract or cause internal bleeding.
Nuts
Feeding pets nuts can cause lethargy, seizures, vomiting, and loss of muscle control. Nuts also have a lot of salt and fat in them, which can also cause a number of health issues.
Salty foods
A lot of salt can cause pets to be very thirsty and excessively urinate. In some cases, a lot of salt can even cause sodium ion poisoning. Sodium ion poisoning can cause neurological issues and seizures.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions contain ingredients that can cause damage to your pet’s red blood cells and cause anemia. Whether it is whole or in powder form, you should keep these foods away from your pets at all times.
Raw Fish
This is not necessarily toxic to dogs, but can have harmful bacteria in it that can cause food poisoning or other food borne illnesses for your pet. Your pet just doesn’t need this food.
Xylitol
Some candy, gum, toothpaste, and diet foods are sweetened with xylitol. This sweetener can cause your dog's blood sugar to drop and even cause liver failure. Initial symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, lethargy, and coordination problems for pets.
If your pet has gotten into human food that they were not supposed to and are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact Dr. Jessy or Dr. Weimer at HART Bredel Veterinary Clinic as soon as possible for the best treatment options.