Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food, but while we enjoy our festive meals, it’s important to remember that some of our favorite holiday dishes can be dangerous for our pets. As much as we may want to share the joy with our furry companions, certain foods can cause serious health issues. Here’s a quick guide to keeping your pets safe during Thanksgiving!

Foods to Keep Away from Your Pets

  1. Turkey Bones & Skin
    While turkey itself isn’t harmful in moderation, bones are a big no-no. Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or tears in your pet’s digestive system. Additionally, turkey skin is often seasoned with onions, garlic, and other spices that are toxic to pets.
  2. Stuffing & Gravy
    Many stuffing recipes include onions, garlic, leeks, and other ingredients from the allium family, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Gravy is often high in fat and salt, which can lead to pancreatitis or upset stomachs.
  3. Mashed Potatoes with Add-ins
    Plain potatoes are safe in small amounts, but mashed potatoes with butter, milk, or sour cream can upset your pet’s stomach. Ingredients like onions and garlic in fancy mashed potato dishes should also be avoided.
  4. Sweets & Desserts
    Chocolate is well-known to be toxic to pets, but so is xylitol, a common sweetener found in sugar-free desserts and some baked goods. Keep all pies, cakes, and cookies out of your pet’s reach. Even if they’re not sugar-free, the fat and sugar content can lead to obesity or diabetes in pets over time.
  5. Alcohol & Caffeine
    Alcohol, even in small amounts, can be extremely dangerous for pets, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe health problems like central nervous system depression. Caffeinated drinks should also be avoided, as they can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, and even seizures.

Safe Treat Alternatives for Your Pets

If you want your pets to join in the Thanksgiving fun, give them pet-friendly treats like small portions of plain turkey, carrots, or sweet potatoes. You can also purchase treats specifically designed for pets to keep them happy and safe during the holiday.

Thanksgiving is about gratitude and sharing, but when it comes to your pet’s health, it’s important to be cautious. If you suspect your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t, contact Easthampton Animal Hospital immediately for advice or bring them in for a check-up.