foods your pet should never eat

People foods can be dangerous to pets

It can feel natural to offer your pet a little nibble of whatever it is you’re eating. However, please remember that people food isn’t designed for pet bodies. At best, they’re packed with calories, as well as salt, sugar, and other stuff that can upset pet tummies. And at worst, they can be actually dangerous to the pet you love.

This page does not contain a complete list of potential toxins or health risks. If you have any concerns or questions, please reach out to your veterinary team.

Foods that should never be in your cat’s food or dog’s diet

Things that cats and dogs should never eat

Alcohol in any form (beer, wine, etc.)
Caffeine in any form (coffee, tea, soft drinks, etc.)
Chicken bones and ribs, or other splintery bones
Chocolate
Garlic, onions, leeks, or chives (including cooked or powdered versions)
Grapes and raisins
Sugarless candy, gum, or toothpaste with Xylitol
Yeasted dough (raw bread or pastry dough)

Things your dog should never eat

As any owner of a scroungy garbage hound knows, dogs are champs at eating things that they really shouldn’t. Hopefully, whatever they eat passes on through with a minimum of unpleasantness. The below is a short list of what could actually hurt them.

Avocado skin, pits, and leaves
Blue cheese
Hops (used in home brewing)
Kitchen spices (like nutmeg), herbs, and baking soda
Macadamia nuts, even in small amounts
Moldy or spoiled food
Pits from fruits like peaches and plums

Things your cat should never eat

Fortunately, cats are famously finicky eaters. However, they may still chew houseplants or walk through something sticky that they’ll try to wash off. Here are common poisons for cats.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Antifreeze
Bleach or other wet or sticky chemicals
Parasite control for dogs containing permethrin
Lilies of any type

How to tell if your pet’s been poisoned

If your cat or dog has been poisoned, they can show symptoms right away, or hours or even days later.

If your pet is showing any combination of these symptoms, don’t delay. Seek emergency veterinary care or call the pet poison hotline at 800-213-6680 now.

Signs and symptoms of poisoning: