As families gather around the table this Thanksgiving, pet owners are reminded to keep a close eye on what their dogs and cats may try to sneak from the holiday feast.
While the season is filled with delicious dishes, many traditional Thanksgiving foods can be harmful—or even toxic—to household pets.
Foods Cats Should Never Eat
Cats may be curious about the smells coming from the kitchen, but experts emphasize that several common holiday items can pose serious health risks.
Pet owners should keep the following foods far from feline reach:
- Alcohol – Even small amounts can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure and body temperature.
- Milk and dairy products – Many cats are lactose intolerant, leading to digestive upset.
- Coffee, tea, or any caffeinated drink – Caffeine can be toxic to cats, causing rapid breathing, heart palpitations, or seizures.
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is highly dangerous to cats.
- Raw meat or fish – May contain bacteria or enzymes that can cause illness.
- Onions and garlic – Can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.
- Cooked bones – Can splinter easily, risking choking or internal injury.
- Grapes and raisins – Known to cause kidney failure in some pets.
Foods Dogs Should Avoid This Thanksgiving
Dogs are often eager to join the feast, but many favorites on the Thanksgiving table can be harmful for them as well.
According to veterinary professionals, dogs should not eat:
- Alcohol – Even small amounts are dangerous.
- Raw yeast dough – Can expand in a dog’s stomach, leading to bloating and serious complications. (Fully baked bread is safe in small amounts.)
- Chocolate – Highly toxic to dogs due to theobromine.
- Coffee, tea, or caffeinated drinks – Caffeine can cause tremors and heart issues.
- Grapes and raisins – A leading cause of sudden kidney failure in dogs.
- Garlic, leeks, and onions – These can destroy red blood cells and cause anemia.
- Ice cream – Dogs often cannot tolerate dairy, and sugary treats can lead to stomach upset.
- Potatoes (especially raw or green) – Contain solanine, a compound harmful to dogs.
Veterinarians encourage pet owners to stick to pet-friendly treats and avoid feeding table scraps.
Turkey that is plain, fully cooked, and boneless can be offered sparingly. Pet-safe vegetables like pumpkin or green beans also make great alternatives.
If a pet consumes something potentially dangerous, owners should contact their veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
This Thanksgiving, a little caution goes a long way in ensuring every member of the family—including the furry ones—celebrates safely.
