Holiday and Seasonal Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets
The festive-table foods to keep away from dogs and cats, season by season.
Holidays mean more food around — and more chances for a curious pet to grab something they shouldn't. Keep these off-limits year-round, and especially when the table is full.
Chocolate and sweets. Chocolate (especially dark and baking chocolate) is dangerous for pets, and many sugar-free treats contain xylitol, which is extremely dangerous for dogs. Keep desserts well out of reach.
Onions, garlic, and rich leftovers. Stuffing, gravies, and seasoned meats often contain onion and garlic, which can harm dogs and cats. Fatty, rich scraps can also trigger stomach upset or worse.
Grapes, raisins, and fruitcake. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney problems in dogs — and they hide in fruitcakes, trail mix, and baked goods.
Cooked bones and alcohol. Cooked bones can splinter; alcohol (including unbaked doughs with yeast) is dangerous even in small amounts.
The kind move is to give your pet their own safe treat while everyone else enjoys the table — something simple and single-ingredient you can feel good about. That's what we're building at EveryPetHaven Kitchen: fresh, gently-dehydrated treats with nothing on the label you can't pronounce. Join the launch list at everypethaven.com/kickstarter.
If you think your pet ate something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control line immediately. This is general information, not veterinary advice.