We love our pets and want to spoil them as much as we can, but spoiling them with food can sometimes do more harm than good. In fact, certain products and substances that people eat regularly can be poisonous to cats, dogs, and other pets!
While this list contains just a few of the most dangerous foods to feed your pet, there are plenty more foods to keep out of reach. For more information visit aspca.org.
1. Chocolate – Contains caffeine which stimulates the nervous system and the heart. It’s poisonous to all species, but dogs are most likely to eat dangerous quantities, so keep it out of reach at all times.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, increased thirst, restlessness, agitation, increased or irregular heartbeat, increased body temperature, tremors, seizures.
2. Grapes, Raisins – Damage the kidneys. They are poisonous to dogs and cats.
Possible effects of poisoning: Increased thirst, increased urination, lethargy, vomiting.
3. Garlic, Onions – Contains sulfoxides and disulfides which can damage red blood cells, causing anemia. Poisonous to cats and dogs. Garlic is less toxic than onions.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, red-colored urine, weakness, anemia.
4. Alcoholic Drinks – Depress the nervous system. Poisonous to all species! Never leave open containers laying around, and make sure alcohol drinks are left up high where dogs and cats knock over. Drunk pets are not funny.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, disorientation, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma, seizures and death.
5. Mushrooms – Can contain toxins which may affect multiple systems in the body, cause shock, and even result in death.
6. Macadamia Nuts – Contain an unknown toxin which can cause muscle and nervous-system problems for dogs.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, lethargy, weakness, increased body temperature, tremors.
7. Avocados – Contain persin, which damages the heart muscle. Poisonous to most species, but birds are most sensitive.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, diarrhea (in dogs), lethargy, difficulty breathing (in birds and rodents).
8. Sugary foods – Just like in humans too much sugar in the diet can lead to obesity, dental problems, and can even cause diabetes.
9. Xylitol – The sugar replacement, or artificial sweetener, can found be found in sugar-free foods, candy and gum. Can cause very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). In high doses can cause liver failure.
Possible effects of poisoning: Vomiting, weakness and collapse.
If you think your dog, cat, or bird has consumed one of these items and you are concerned, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435)!!
