As dog owners, it’s not uncommon to want to spoil your four-legged family members by sharing

table scraps or your favorite snack with them. After all, if it is safe for you to eat, it must be OK
for them as well, right? Not necessarily. While many human foods, especially fruits and
vegetables, are perfectly safe, some are very unhealthy and downright dangerous to dogs. Dogs
digest differently than humans, and eating the wrong foods can lead to long-term health
problems and, in extreme cases, even death. As carnivores, they have no need for fruits and
vegetables as part of their diet, but an occasional fruit or veggie as a treat is OK.

But that doesn’t mean all human food is off limits for dogs. Read below to find out which fruits
and vegetables are OK for sharing in moderation and which should be kept on your plate.

Fruits & Vegetables

 Apples – Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A
and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect
snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy
warm weather snack. Read More >

 Bananas – Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-
calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are
low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given
as a treat, not part of your dog’s regular diet. Read more >

 Watermelon – Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. It’s important to remove the rind
and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon is otherwise safe for dogs.
It’s full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Watermelon is 92 percent water, so it’s a
great way to keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days. Read more >
 Grapes – No, dogs should not eat grapes. Grapes and raisins have proved to be
very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they
can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Definitely skip this dangerous treat. Read More >

 Strawberries – Yes, dogs can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of fiber and
vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as
he or she eats them. They are high in sugar though, so be sure to give them in moderation. Read
More >

 Oranges – Yes, dogs can eat oranges. Small dogs can have up to 1/3 of a full-
size orange, while large dogs can eat the whole thing. While the peel isn’t toxic to them, vets
recommend tossing the peel and just giving your dog the inside of the orange, minus the seeds,
as the peel is much more rough on their digestive systems than the fleshy inside of the
orange. Read More >

 Blueberries – Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a superfood rich in
antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. They’re packed with fiber
and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries as an
alternative to store-bought treats. Read More >

 Carrots – Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack
that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on the orange
snacks is great for your dog’s teeth. Read More >
 Tomatoes – No, dogs should not eat tomatoes. While the ripened fruit of the
tomato plant (the red part humans normally eat) is generally considered safe for dogs, the green
parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called solanine. While a dog would need to eat a large
amount for it to make him or her sick, it’s better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe.
Read More >

 Pineapple – Yes, dogs can eat pineapple. A few chunks of pineapple is a great
sweet treat for dogs as long as the prickly outside is removed first. The tropical fruit is full of
vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs
to absorb proteins. Read More >

 Avocado – No, dogs should not eat avocado. While avocado may be a healthy
snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs at all. The pit, skin and leaves of avocados
contain Persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The fleshy inside of the
fruit doesn’t have as much Persin as the rest of the plant, but it is still too much for dogs to
handle. Read More >

 Broccoli – Yes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is
best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. On the surface,
this makes it an appealing choice for dog owners looking for a healthy dog treat, but broccoli
also contains a potentially harmful ingredient. Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which
can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Also, broccoli stalks have
been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus. Read More >

 Mushrooms – No, dogs should not eat mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be
toxic for dogs. While only 50 to 100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be
toxic, the ones that are can really hurt your dog or even lead to death. Washed mushrooms from
 the supermarket could be OK, but it’s better to be safe than sorry; skip out on the fungi all
together.

 Cucumbers – Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are especially good for
overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates, fats, or oils and can even boost energy
levels. They’re loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium,
and biotin.

 Celery – Yes, dogs can eat celery. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this
crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight
cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, celery also is known to freshen doggy breath. Read More >

 Onions – No, dogs should not eat onions. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a
family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats. Eating onions can
cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain,
and nausea. Poisoning onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs such as Akitas and
Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it. Read More >

 Pears – Yes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because they’re high in
copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk
of having a stroke by 50 percent. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the
pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Read More >

 Potatoes – Yes, dogs can eat potatoes. It’s fine to give your dog plain potatoes
every once and a while, but only if they’re cooked, as raw potatoes can be rough on the stomach.
A washed, peeled, plain boiled, or baked potato contains lots of iron for your pet. Avoid mashed
potatoes because they often contain butter, milk, or seasonings.
 Cherries – No, dogs should not eat cherries. With the exception of the fleshy
part around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts
cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dog’s blood cells can’t get enough oxygen. If
your dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as
these may be signs of cyanide poisoning. Read More >

 Peaches – Yes, dogs can eat peaches. Small amounts of cut-up peaches are a
great source of fiber and vitamin A, and can even help fight infections, but just like cherries, the
pit does contain cyanide. As long as you completely cut around the pit first, fresh peaches can be
a great summer treat – just not canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary
syrups.

 Asparagus – No, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isn’t
necessarily unsafe for dogs, there’s really no point in giving it to them. It’s too tough to be eaten
raw, and by the time you cook it down so it’s soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the
nutrients it contains. If you’re determined to give your dogs vegetables, go for something that
will actually benefit them. Read More >

 Sweet potatoes – Yes, dogs can eat sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are packed
with nutrients, including fiber, beta carotene, and vitamins B-6 and C. Just like with regular
potatoes, only give your dog washed, peeled, cooked, and unseasoned sweet potatoes that have
cooled down, and definitely avoid sugary sweet potato pies and casseroles.

 Raspberries – Yes, dogs can eat raspberries. Raspberries are fine in moderation.
They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They’re low in sugar and calories, but high in
fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for senior dogs because they
have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help take pain and pressure from joints. However,
 they do contain slight amounts of the toxin Xylitol, so limit your dog to less than a cup of
raspberries at a time.

 Mango – Yes, dogs can eat mango. This sweet summer treat is packed with four,
yes four different vitamins: vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-
carotene and alpha carotene. Just remember, as with most fruits, to remove the hard pit first, as it
contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard. Read More >
Photo: shelmac/Flickr

Most dogs want to eat whatever we're eating, no matter what it is. Whether it is a juicy beefsteak
tomato or a juicy beef steak, your dog wants to help you finish it. Vets generally do not
recommend feeding table scraps to dogs, but some foods are fine to give every once in a while as
a treat.. Tomatoes are among these, as long as owners understand the risks.

Tomatoes are in the nightshade family of vegetables, which means the plants contain a few
components that are harmful to certain animals, including tomatine. Tomatine, a substance found
in the stem and leaves of the tomato and related plants, is harmful to dogs in large quantities.
Luckily for dogs that enjoy the occasional tomato, tomatine is mostly concentrated in the green
parts of the tomato plant. The leaves, stems, and young, green tomatoes contain higher amounts
of tomatine than ripe fruit, which means that ripe tomatoes are generally safe to feed to dogs.
This is still problematic for those of us who keep a tomato plant in the garden, as we have to
worry about our dogs eating green tomatoes or chewing on the stem and leaves.

If your dog has consumed the green parts of a tomato plant, watch him carefully for signs of
tomatine poisoning. Clinical signs of too much tomatine include:

 Gastrointestinal (GI) upset

 Cardiac effects
 Loss of coordination
 Muscle weakness
 Tremors
 Seizures

The good news is that these symptoms are rare, and the prognosis for dogs with tomatine
poisoning is generally good. Call your vet if your dog exhibits these signs, as they can be a
symptom of other serious health problems in addition to tomatine consumption..

So, can dogs eat tomatoes? The answer is both yes and no. Ripe tomatoes are considered
nontoxic to dogs and can be fed in moderation as an occasional snack. Unripe tomatoes and
tomato plants, on the other hand, should be avoided. It is probably a good idea to keep dogs
away from tomato plants, either by fencing off your garden area or by supervising your dog
carefully in the garden. Both your dog and your tomatoes will thank you.

Check out these links for more information about fruits and vegetables that dogs can and cannot
eat.

Can Dogs Have Cherries?

Katherine Ripley | May 08, 2017
Fruit is a tasty and (most of the time) healthy snack for a dog, but not all fruits are safe for our
furry friends. When it comes to cherries, specifically, there are some dangers you should be
aware of.

Use Extreme Caution With Feeding Dogs Cherries

The main danger of cherries is that their pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is
poisonous and potentially lethal if consumed in high enough quantities. Cherry pits can also get
lodged in a dog's digestive tract and cause intestinal blockages.

What about maraschino cherries, which already have the pits removed? They may be pit-free, but
maraschinos are not a good dog treat because they have been sweetened with tons of sugar.

What to Do if Your Dog Swallows a Whole Cherry

If your dog gets his paws on a whole cherry when you're not looking, don't panic. A single
cherry pit will not cause cyanide poisoning. But you should look out for symptoms of intestinal
blockage, including vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, and decreased fecal production.

These symptoms may appear up to 24 hours after your dog swallowed a cherry pit. Keep in mind
that smaller dogs are more likely to suffer intestinal blockages from a small pit.
If your dog eats multiple cherries, you should look out for symptoms of cyanide poisoning.
These include labored breathing, bright red gums, and dilated pupils. If you find that your pooch
ate multiple cherries without pits, it's a good idea to call your vet as a precaution. Your vet may
decide that the best course of action is to induce vomiting to prevent cyanide toxicity.

Is It Safe for Dogs to Have Cherries?

What is the final verdict on cherries? Dogs can eat unprocessed cherries, but you must use
extreme caution when preparing them, and always keep cherries that have not been pitted well
out of reach.

Can Dogs Eat Onions?

Anna Burke | May 11, 2017
Onions can cause more damage to your dog than just bad breath. This pungent culinary favorite
might add flavor to your dishes, but it contains a toxin that can cause serious complications for
dogs.

Are onions toxic to dogs?

Onions contain a toxic principle known as N-propyl disulfide. This compound causes a
breakdown of red blood cells, leading to anemia in dogs.
The toxin causes oxidative damage to your dog's red blood cells by attaching to the oxygen
molecules in your dog's red blood cells. This reduces the ability of the red blood cells to carry
oxygen, and also tricks your dog's body into thinking that the blood cell is an invader. The red
blood cell is destroyed in a process known as hemolysis, resulting in hemolytic anemia.

What parts of onions are toxic to dogs?

All parts of the onion plant are toxic to dogs, including the flesh, leaves, juice, and processed
powders. Raw or cooked, fried or powdered, onions and the rest of the allium family (garlic,
shallots, leeks, and chives) are harmful to dogs.

Onion powder is in a surprisingly wide range of foods, from soups to baby food. It only takes
100 grams of onion (about the size of a medium onion) per 20 kilograms of a dog's weight to
cause toxic effects, which means that a 45-pound dog would only have to eat one medium-to-
large-size onion to experience dangerous toxicity levels. Since most dogs would happily devour
a bag of unattended onion rings or an onion casserole, given the opportunity, this is a serious
concern.

Onion and garlic powders are even more potent than fresh onions. It is always a good idea to
check the label of any human food we feed to our dogs, and onion powder should be in your list
of "don'ts." As a word of warning to those with multi-species households, onions are even more
toxic to cats than they are to dogs, so keep both feline and canine tummies free of onion treats.

Symptoms of onion toxicity in dogs

If you think your dog may have eaten onions, there are a few symptoms of anemia to look out
for:

 Lethargy
 Weakness
 Decreased appetite
 Pale gums
 Fainting
 Reddish urine

The ASPCA also lists vomiting, elevated heart rate, and panting as signs of onion toxicity.

If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, the best thing you can do to help him is to get
him to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will diagnose your dog's condition
based on his symptoms and blood work. If your vet detects hemolytic anemia or the formation of
Heinz bodies on a blood smear, and that is combined with a recent history of onion exposure,
then all signs point toward onion toxicity.

Other conditions can also cause hemolytic anemia, so it is important to get an accurate diagnosis
to ensure your dog gets the best care.

Treating onion toxicity in dogs

The most important thing you can do, as a dog owner, to treat and prevent onion toxicity is to
never allow your dog to eat onions. If your dog is suffering from toxic effects, she will probably
require veterinary attention. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting, depending on how recently
your dog ate the onions, and will offer supportive care until your dog's body can produce enough
healthy red blood cells to replace the damaged ones. In severe cases, your dog may require a
blood transfusion.
Onion toxicity can be fatal. The faster you get your dog to the veterinarian, the better her
chances, and you can prevent onion poisoning from recurring in the future by keeping onion
dishes out of the reach of inquisitive noses.

Healthy vegetables for dogs

Onions might be a no go, but there are lots of healthy vegetables that are perfectly safe for dogs
that you can feed them instead. Try offering your dog carrots, cucumbers, or green beans as a
healthy treat, and check out more of the fruits and vegetables dogs can and can't eat here.
The smell of roasting garlic is one of those scents that immediately make most of us hungry. It's
featured in cuisines around the globe and is found in many of our favorite foods. Scientific
evidence even suggests that garlic has medicinal benefits for humans, so it is perfectly natural for
us to wonder if we can feed garlic to our dogs.

The answer, emphatically, is no.

Is it safe for dogs to eat garlic?

Garlic might be good for us, but dogs metabolize certain foods, including garlic, differently than
we do. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, garlic and other members of the allium
family, including onions, contain thiosulfate, which is toxic to dogs but not to humans.

Thiosulfate causes oxidative damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia.
Symptoms of anemia include pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, lethargy, weakness,
jaundice, and dark colored urine. Garlic toxicity also causes symptoms of gastrointestinal upset,
including vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, depression, and dehydration.

How much garlic is toxic to dogs?

Studies have found it takes approximately 15 to 30 grams of garlic per kilograms of body weight
to produce harmful changes in a dog’s blood. To put that into perspective, the average clove of
supermarket garlic weighs between 3 and 7 grams, so your dog would have to eat a lot of garlic
to get really sick. However, some dogs are more sensitive to garlic toxicity than others, and
consumption of a toxic dose spread out over a few days can also cause problems.

This means that if your dog accidentally eats something with a little garlic in it, he will probably
be okay, but intentionally feeding your dog garlic is a recipe for a veterinary visit.
Can I feed my dog garlic bread?
Garlic bread will almost certainly catch your dog's attention, but in addition to garlic, garlic
bread also usually contains large amounts of butter, oils, cheese, and herbs that can upset your
dog's stomach. This high-calorie food is also a source of unnecessary calories and fat, and offers
no nutritional benefits to your pet.

Check out these fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs instead for alternative healthy treats.

Can I feed my dog garlic supplements?

Despite garlic's known toxicity, some websites and well-meaning dog owners recommend garlic
supplements for dogs as part of a natural wellness plan or as a flea and tick preventative. This
contradiction can be very confusing for dog owners.

Garlic as a health supplement for pets has not produced consistent positive results in studies.
While very small doses might be safe for most dogs, the lack of conclusive evidence and the
known risks are something for dog owners to seriously consider. If you do decide to feed a garlic
supplement, always check with your veterinarian about what is appropriate for your dog. Feeding
an incorrect dose of a garlic supplement could have toxic effects, so plan on working with a
veterinarian to come up with the best treatment and prevention plan for your dog.
Treating garlic toxicity in dogs
If your dog does ingest a large amount of garlic, your best bet is to take him to the veterinarian.
Garlic and onion poisoning are rarely fatal in dogs, but your dog may need supportive care to
keep him comfortable. Your veterinarian may recommend intravenous fluids to keep your dog
hydrated, and may prescribe a medication to control vomiting. In severe cases, blood
transfusions might be necessary.

Alternatives to garlic for dogs

If you want to give your dog a healthy treat, consider feeding fruits and vegetables that are high
in valuable nutrients, like apples, blueberries, strawberries, watermelon, carrots, cucumbers, and
sweet potatoes.

Mushrooms – No, dogs should not eat mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only
50 to 100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the ones that are can really
hurt your dog or even lead to death. Washed mushrooms from the supermarket could be OK, but it’s
better to be safe than sorry; skip out on the fungi all together.

Can Dogs Eat Avocado?

Anna Burke | August 29, 2016

Bring out the guacamole, but don’t feed it to the dogs. Avocados are a healthy and delicious
snack for people. The same is not true for most animals, dogs included, thanks to a toxin called
persin.
Avocado Toxicity in Dogs
Avocado is associated with a host of problems in many animals, including cattle, horses, goats,
sheep, rodents, birds, and fish. Avocados contain persin, which can cause mastitis, heart failure,
and death. Persin is most concentrated in the leaves of the plant, but it is also present in the
seeds, stem, and fruit.

Dogs are more resistant than other animals to persin, according to veterinarians, but that does not
mean avocados are safe for dogs. All parts of the plant can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and
avocados are frequently listed among the top ten people foods that are dangerous for dogs.

What to Do if Your Dog Eats Avocado

Sometimes dogs eat things we don’t want them to. When it comes to avocados, the biggest
danger is the pit. Not only are avocado pits full of persin, they are also a choking hazard. If you
suspect your dog has swallowed an avocado pit, call your vet immediately.

Accidentally eating a small bit of avocado fruit probably won’t cause your dog any lasting
damage. You should still monitor your dog closely if you suspect he has eaten avocado, and it is
always better to play it safe and give your vet a call.
Keeping Dogs Away From Avocados
Prevention is the best way to keep avocados out of your dog’s mouth. Talk to your kids about the
dangers of feeding certain people foods like avocados to dogs, and print out this list of fruits and
vegetables that dogs can and can’t have to keep everyone in your household up-to-date.
Sometimes, however, the danger comes from elsewhere. Guests might try to offer your dog a
well-intended bite of guacamole dip and chips while at your house, and some dogs have a way of
breaking into the garbage can. Keep a close eye on your dog at parties where avocado is served,
and invest in a dog-proof garbage can to keep your dog safe from avocado and other dangerous
foods.

Find out what other human foods are safe for dogs and which are potentially harmful.

A Question We Hear a Bunch: Can Dogs Eat

Grapes?
Erika Mansourian | July 24, 2015
Of all the “can my dog eat…?” questions out there, this is a big one. Here at the AKC, we field
many queries from anxious dog owners about what is safe - and what isn’t - for their dog to eat.
They range from the obvious (“can dogs eat steak bones?”) to the amusing (“can dogs eat
marshmallows?”), to the trendy (“can dogs eat quinoa?”)

The answer about grapes (and this goes for raisins, too) is easy: No.

PetMD points out that grapes and raisins are well documented to have a high toxicity for dogs,
though research has yet to pinpoint exactly which substance in the fruit causes the reaction.

Gender, breed, or age of the dog has no influence on the risk of being affected, and since there is
no proven amount that is safe, prevention really is the best medicine when it comes to slipping
your dog a few grapes and raisins.

Unfortunately, grape/raisin toxicity can even be fatal when ingesting the fruit leads to acute
(sudden) kidney failure.

Here are the signs and symptoms that may occur after a toxic ingestion:

* Loss of appetite

* Lethargy, weakness, unusual stillness

* Vomiting and/or diarrhea, often within a few hours

* Abdominal pain (tender when touched)

* Dehydration (signs include panting; dry nose and mouth; pale gums). A quick way to test for
dehydration: gently pull up on the skin at the back of the dog’s neck. It should spring back
immediately.

*Diminished amount of urine or complete cessation altogether

* Kidney failure (can be fatal)

If your dog has been affected, diagnosis and treatment are absolutely critical. Make sure to read
this: "Grape and Raisin Poisoning in Dogs."

Now that you’ve had your lesson for the day, let us reward you with a video of Cricket the Ibizan
Hound eating a slice of watermelon—a fruit that gets our thumbs up.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Chocolate
Why Chocolate is Toxic to Dogs
Chocolate contains both theobromine and caffeine, both which can speed the heart rate and
stimulate the nervous system of dogs, the Merck/Merial Manual for Veterinary Health explains.
The risk of your dog becoming sick from ingesting chocolate depends on the type and amount of
chocolate consumed and the weight of the dog (calculate your dog's risk of toxicity with this
easy-to-use program). The concentrations of these toxic substances varies among different types
of chocolates. Here are a few types of chocolate listed in order of theobromine content:

1. Cocoa powder (most toxic)

2. Unsweetened baker’s chocolate
3. Semisweet chocolate
4. Dark chocolate
5. Milk chocolate
6. White chocolate (not very toxic)

Although a few Hersey kisses are unlikely to affect a medium-sized dog, if you know your dog
has eaten chocolate, it’s important to monitor him for signs of toxicity (see below), and it's
recommended that you contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-213-6680, fee
applies) for advice.

RELATED: Dog Vomiting

What are the Signs of Chocolate Poisoning?

Signs of chocolate poisoning usually appear within 6 to 12 hours after your dog has eaten it, may
last up to 72 hours, and include the following:

 Vomiting
 Diarrhea
 Restlessness
 Increased urination
 Tremors
 Elevated or abnormal heart rate
  Seizures
 Collapse and death

Note: Older dogs and dogs with heart conditions are more at risk of sudden death from chocolate
poisoning.

What to Do If Your Dog Ate Chocolate

If you believe your dog ate chocolate, call your veterinarian immediately and/or call the Pet
Poison Helpline (855-213-6680) for advice. Based on your dog’s size and the amount and type of
chocolate consumed, your veterinarian may recommend that you simply monitor him for the
clinical signs listed above and call back if his condition worsens.

In other cases, the veterinarian may prefer you bring the dog into the clinic. If your pet consumed
the chocolate less than two hours ago, your veterinarian may induce vomiting and give him
several doses of activated charcoal, which works to move the toxins out of the body without
being absorbed into the bloodstream. For more severe cases, veterinary intervention may be
needed to provide supplemental treatment, such as medications or IV fluids, to resolve the effects
of the poisoning. Dogs suffering from seizures may need to be monitored at the clinic overnight.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Eating Chocolate

Even though small amounts of milk chocolate may not cause a problem in larger dogs, it’s still
not recommended that pet owners offer their dog chocolate as a treat. To prevent your dog from
sneaking chocolate, follow these tips:

Put it away: Make sure all chocolate items, including cocoa powder and hot chocolate mix, are
stored where the dog cannot reach them, such as on a high shelf in a closed-door pantry. Remind
your children and guests that chocolate should be kept out of the dog’s reach and not left on
countertops, tables, or in purses. Keep this in mind during the holidays, too, making sure to place
trick-or-treat bags, Easter baskets, Christmas stockings, and Hanukkah coins (gelt), for example,
in a place where a dog cannot get to them.

Teach “leave it”: The command “leave it” is extremely effective in preventing dogs from eating
something that falls onto the ground or is left within reach during a walk. It's also a very easy
command to teach. Click here for instructions from the AKC GoodDog! Helpline on how to train
your dog to "leave it."

Crate train your dog: The safest way to ensure your dog doesn’t eat anything harmful while
you’re not supervising him is to crate train him. Find a sturdy crate that is large enough for your
dog to stand up and turn around and make it a comfortable, safe place for him to retreat to when
he wants to be alone or when you can’t watch him. Offer toys, a stuffed Kong, a favorite blanket,
and treats to help him feel like the crate is his personal den. Get more tips on crate-training a dog
by downloading the complimentary e-book below.
 Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat
Staff Writers | December 03, 2015

Dedicated dog lovers tend to be very kind people. We share our hearts and homes (and for some
lucky pooches, even the foot of our beds) with our canine pals. Surely there is nothing wrong
with sharing our favorite foods with them too, right? Not necessarily. Many of the foods, such
as fruits and vegetables, that humans digest just fine can wreck havoc on a dog's body, causing
severe health problems. However, some of the foods people eat can be introduced to a dog's diet
just fine, providing health benefits such as joint strength, better breath, and allergy immunity.

Before giving your dog foods that you crave, keep reading to learn which foods are safe and
which can send your dog straight to the vet.

Human Foods

 Chocolate – No. This isn’t just an old wives’ tale. Chocolate contains a very
toxic substance called methylxanthines, which are stimulants that stop a dog’s metabolic process.
Even just a little bit of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, can cause diarrhea and vomiting. A
large amount can cause seizures, irregular heart function, and even death. Do not have chocolate
in an accessible location. If your dog does ingest chocolate, contact a veterinarian or Pet Poison
Helpline as soon as possible. Read more >

 Shrimp – Yes. A few shrimp every now and then is fine for your dog, but only if
they are fully cooked and the shell (including the tail, head, and legs) is removed completely.
Shrimp are high in antioxidants, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus, but also low in fat, calories, and
carbohydrates. Read more >

 Eggs – Yes. Eggs are safe for dogs as long as long as they are fully cooked.
Cooked eggs are a wonderful source of protein and can help an upset stomach. However, eating
 raw egg whites can give dogs biotin deficiency, so be sure to cook the eggs all the way through
before giving them to your pet. Read more >

 Turkey – Yes. Turkey is fine for dogs as long as it is not covered in garlic
(which can be very toxic to dogs) and seasonings. Also be sure to remove excess fat and skin
from the meat and don’t forget to check for bones; poultry bones can splinter during digestion,
causing blockage or even tears in the intestines. Read more >

 Cheese – Yes, in small to moderate quantities. As long as your dog isn’t lactose
intolerant, which is rare but still possible in canines, cheese can be a great treat. Many kinds of
cheese can be high in fat, so go for low-fat varieties like cottage cheese or mozzarella. Read
more >

 Peanut butter – Yes. Just like whole peanuts, peanut butter is an excellent
source of protein for dogs. It contains heart-healthy fats, vitamins B and E and niacin. Raw,
unsalted peanut butter is the healthiest option because it doesn’t contain xylitol, a sugar
substitute that can be toxic to dogs. Read more >

 Popcorn – Yes. Unsalted, unbuttered, plain air-popped popcorn is OK for your

dog in moderation. It contains riboflavin and thiamine, both of which promote eye health and
digestion, as well as small amounts of iron and protein. Be sure to pop the kernels all the way
before giving them to your dog, as unpopped kernels could become a choking hazard. Read more
>

 Cinnamon – No. Cinnamon and its oils can irritate the inside of pets’ mouths,
making them uncomfortable and sick. It can lower a dog’s blood sugar too much and can lead to
diarrhea, vomiting, increased, or decreased heart rate and even liver disease. If they inhale it in
powder form, cinnamon can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and choking. Read more >
 Pork / ham – Yes. Pork is highly digestible protein, packed with amino acids,
and it contains more calories per pound than other meats. Pork also may be less likely to cause
an allergic reaction in some pets compared to meat.

 Corn – Yes. Corn is one of the most common ingredients in most dog foods.
However, the cob can be hard for them to digest and may cause an intestinal blockage, so avoid
giving them corn on the cob.

 Fish – Yes. Fish contains good fats and amino acids, giving your dog a nice
health boost. Salmon and sardines are especially beneficial – salmon because it’s loaded with
vitamins and protein, and sardines because they have soft, digestible bones for extra calcium.
With the exception of sardines, be sure to pick out all the tiny bones, which can be tedious but is
necessary. Never feed your dog uncooked or under-cooked fish, only fully cooked and cooled,
and limit your dog’s fish intake to no more than twice a week. Read more >

 Bread – Yes. Small amounts of plain bread (no spices and definitely no raisins)
won’t hurt your dog, but it also won’t provide any health benefits either. It has no nutritional
value and can really pack on the carbohydrates and calories, just like in people. Homemade
breads are a better option than store-bought, as bread from the grocery store typically contains
unnecessary preservatives, but it’s best to avoid it all together. Read more >

 Yogurt – Yes. Plain yogurt is a perfectly acceptable snack for dogs. It is rich in
protein and calcium. The active bacteria in yogurt can help strengthen the digestive system with
probiotics. Be sure to skip over yogurts with added sugars and artificial sweeteners.
 Tuna – Yes. In moderation, cooked fresh tuna is an excellent source of omega-3
fatty acids, which promotes heart and eye health. As for canned tuna, it contains small amounts
of mercury and sodium, which should be avoided in excess. A little bit of canned tuna and tuna
juice here and there is fine – prepared only in water, not oil – as long as it doesn’t contain any
spices.

 Honey – Yes. Honey is packed with countless nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C,

D, E, and K, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and antioxidants. Feeding dogs a
tablespoon of local honey twice a day can help with allergies because it introduces small
amounts of pollen to their systems, building up immunity to allergens in your area. In addition to
consuming honey, the sticky spread can also be used as a topical treatment for burns and
superficial cuts. Read more >

 Garlic – No. Like onions, leeks, and chives, garlic is part of the Allium family,
and it is five times more toxic to dogs than the rest of the Allium plants. Garlic can create anemia
in dogs, causing side effects such as pale gums, elevated heart rate, weakness, and collapsing.
Poisoning from garlic and onions may have delayed symptoms, so if you think your dog may
have eaten some, monitor him or her for a few days, not just right after consumption. Read more
>

 Salmon – Yes. As mentioned above, fully cooked salmon is an excellent source

of protein, good fats, and amino acids. It promotes joint and brain health and gives their immune
systems a nice boost. However, raw or undercooked salmon contains parasites that can make
dogs very sick, causing vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and, in extreme cases, even death. Be
sure to cook salmon all the way through (the FDA recommends at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit)
and the parasites should cook out.
 Ice cream – No. As refreshing of a treat ice cream is, it’s best not to share it with
your dog. Canines don’t digest dairy very well, and many even have a slight intolerance to
lactose, a sugar found in milk products. Although it’s also a dairy product, frozen yogurt is a
much better alternative. To avoid the milk altogether, freeze chunks of strawberries, raspberries,
apples, and pineapples and give them to your dog as a sweet, icy treat.

 Coconut – Yes. This funky fruit contains Lauric, which strengthens the immune
system by fighting off viruses. It can also help with bad breath and clearing up skin conditions
like hot spots, flea allergies, and itchy skin. Coconut milk and coconut oil are safe for dogs too.
Just be sure your dog doesn’t get its paws on the furry outside of the shell, which can get lodged
in the throat.

 Almonds – No. Almonds may not necessarily be toxic to dogs like pecans,
walnuts and macadamia nuts are, but they can block the esophagus or even tear the windpipe if
not chewed completely. Salted almonds are especially dangerous because they can increase
water retention, which is potentially fatal to dogs prone to heart disease. Read More >

 Peanuts – Yes. Unlike almonds, peanuts are safe for dogs to eat. They’re packed
with good fats and proteins that will benefit your dog. Just be sure to give peanuts in moderation,
as you don’t want your dog taking in too much fat, which can lead to pancreas issues in canines.
Also, avoid salted peanuts. Read More >

 Macadamia nuts – No. These are some of the most poisonous foods for dogs.
Macadamia nuts, part of the Protaceae family, can cause vomiting, increased body temperature,
inability to walk, lethargy, and vomiting. Even worse, they can affect the nervous system. Never
feed your pets macadamia nuts.
 Cashews – Yes. Cashews are OK for dogs, but only a few at a time. They’ve got
calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and proteins, but while these nuts contain less fat than
walnuts, almonds, or pecans, too many can lead to weight gain and other fat-related conditions.
A few cashews here and there is a nice treat, but only if they’re unsalted. Read more >
Feeding Vegetables to Cats

Cats can eat some vegetables.

Just because you need plenty of vegetables in your diet doesn’t mean your cat does. Cats need
mostly proteins to lead a healthy life because they are carnivores. But if your cat is more tubby
than tabby, you might want to introduce some veggie treats.

Benefits
Although cats are meat-eaters, when they hunt and eat their natural prey, they eat the vegetable
matter in the prey’s gut. Cats are built to tolerate a certain amount of roughage in their diets. If
your cat is overweight, adding some veggies to her diet can help keep her weight down. Feeding
your cat vegetables can also boost her immune system and can lessen the effects of aging.

Good and Bad

Good vegetables to offer your cat are chopped carrots, peas, frozen corn, broccoli florets, green
beans, zucchini, lettuce, spinach and catnip. Do not offer garlic, onions, tomatoes, avocados or
mushrooms. These foods are either toxic to cats or are difficult for them to digest. Vegetables
can replace packaged pet snacks you can get at the grocery store, but give them only sparingly.
Treats are just something extra you offer your cat in addition to her regular diet, not as a
replacement for her meal.

How to Offer
Bake or steam the vegetables and cut them into small pieces. Offer the vegetables alone, or puree
them and mix them into your cat’s regular food. Offer only a small amount at a time. You don’t
want to overload your cat with carbs. Lisa A. Pierson, DVM, of CatInfo.org said, “Cats do not
have a physiologic requirement for vegetables and actually lack the enzymes needed to break
down this food source for efficient utilization.”

Too Much is Bad

Look at the ingredients of the cat food you buy. Many foods, especially dry food, contain too
much plant-based protein instead of animal-based protein. A muscle meat should be the first
ingredient and will be on the label as “chicken” or “turkey,” for example. A cat food that
contains corn, wheat or soy as the main ingredient is not a good choice. The amount of
carbohydrates in commercial cat food should be no more than 3 to 5 percent of the total
ingredients.

Follow @MyTypesOfCats
You are here: Home / Cats / What Human Food Can Cats Eat?

What Human Food Can Cats Eat?

By Rahat Bashar

Every pet owner faces this kind of difficult situation at some point in time when he wants to feed
his beloved animal friend with human cooked or raw, food.
The question here is: is it good and is it safe to do so? Just like any child, your feline friend
would plead for any piece of food it can put its paw on or anything that is within their reach but
their anatomy is different and so are their nutritional needs.

We’ve all heard of “puppy eyes” but not all of us have heard of “kitten meows”. It’s that baby-
like crying meow sound your cat makes with its tiny face and big eyes, which means, “Please
feed me”.

Cat owners are left with the daunting task of resisting this begging ordeal. But are they right on
their part? Can cats eat human food? And if yes, what human food can cats eat?

Well, cat owners can rest in peace after knowing the fact that there are certain food items that
cats can eat. According to researchers, a cat’s digestive system is totally different from that of a
human, but small quantities of food can still be fed to cats.

Here the word “small” is significant; the food items must be given to cats in small amounts, as
treats. Just don’t make a habit of feeding your cat with bread and butter along with a healthy cup
of orange juice because you’ll end up damaging their health.

Here are a few examples of the types of human food your cat can eat.

1. Fish is one meal you can share with your cat. Canned or steam-cooked fish pieces, bone
free, can make a tasty treat for your feline. Big chunks are forbidden as they have too big
amounts of mercury, fatty acids and magnesium that are not good for a cat. Also, raw fish
can cause food poisoning; while an all-fish diet is a good recipe for malnutrition.
2. Cheese is great in small pieces. Adult cats have lactose intolerance and milk, cream,
cheese and other dairy products are dangerous for them. But from time to time, it’s
alright to reward your cat with tiny cubes of cheese. A teaspoon of cream or yogurt is
also welcomed.
3. Broccoli and spinach can replace grass for an indoor cat and help it clear its digestive
system. Cats should be made to eat vegetables when they need some digestive green
helpers. House cats usually attack apartment plants that can be toxic for them. Steamed
broccoli is a good and healthy replacement, so offer it to your cat anytime you see it
chewing your garden flowers. Melons could be a refreshing summer-day treat from the
veggie department. Before offering it to your cat, make sure to remove all the seeds as
cats may inhale them, which might choke their throat.
4. Eggs are a good source of protein for cats, as long as they’re cooked. Try hard-boiled
eggs or scrambled oil free eggs but don’t offer raw eggs to your cat; they may be infected
with salmonella, a contagious bacterial disease.
5. Turkey ham pieces will turn your grumpy morning cat into a happy morning cat.
Preservatives-free ham, salami and other alike meat-based products are a good bribe for
any cat, as long as they come in small portions. Boiled beef will satisfy your cat’s
appetite for meat. Avoid fatty portions of meat because cats are prone to weight issues.
6. Canned baby food is also another good bribe for fussy cats. If you’re dealing with a picky
cat or one with sensible stomach or kidney problems, offer it some baby food. Older cats
with dental issues also get along well with baby food when they refuse to eat cat-food.
Check the ingredients list for onion or garlic, as these two strong smelling things are very
dangerous for cats.
7 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Cat
By Arden Moore | August 2, 2012


 Twitter


 Print
 Email

Thinkstock

Although it can be irksome for owners, being branded finicky could ultimately be a boon for cats
— especially when it comes to ingesting potentially dangerous foods.

“The main drivers of palatability for cats are protein and fat content, with moisture and texture
being important too,” says Dr. Sally Perea, DVM, DACVN, a board-certified veterinary
nutritionist at P&G Pet Care in Ohio.

Some “people food” is safe for cats in small amounts, but certain items — like raw fish and eggs
— are definitely hazardous. Dr. Perea lists the top seven no-no foods for kitties:

Feline Food Offender #1: Raw Fish

“Human-grade sushi is generally safe for people, but it can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats,”
says Dr. Perea. “There is thiaminase in raw fish that could break down an essential B vitamin
called thiamine in cats. Thiamine deficiency can cause neurological problems — and even lead
to convulsions.”

Feline Food Offender #2: Onions and Chives

Cats are considered two times more susceptible than dogs to the toxic allium components found
in onions and chives, which can damage red blood cells even if a kitty only consumes a trace
amount. “It doesn’t matter if the onion is cooked, raw or powdered,” says Dr. Perea. “Cats do not
metabolize these compounds.”

For this reason, Dr. Perea cautions owners against offering human baby food to their cats to
stimulate appetites, because it can contain onion powder, which could cause anemia in felines.

Feline Food Offender #3: Uncooked Eggs

Cats benefit from protein, but raw eggs may expose them to salmonella and other parasites that
could lead to an inflamed pancreas, known as pancreatitis. Dr. Perea adds that it's safe to serve
your kitty cooked eggs — but only on occasion, and in small amounts.

Feline Food Offender #4: Bones

Bones can splinter and cause a cat to choke, as well as block the intestinal tract, possibly even
perforating the intestines. “Never give a bone to a cat,” says Dr. Perea. “And never give them
anything that is as hard as their teeth, because it can cause dental fractures."

Feline Food Offender #5: Fat Trimmings

Feeding your feline fat trimmings could lead to gastrointestinal upset and even pancreatitis.

Feline Food Offender #6: Caffeinated Drinks

Some cats may be drawn to lapping up your coffee, tea or soda, but according to Dr. Perea, too
much caffeine consumption can cause an increased heart rate and agitation in your kitty.

Feline Food Offender #7: Milk

In general, a cat’s digestive tract becomes somewhat lactose intolerant once a cat reaches
adulthood, causing diarrhea and other stomach upsets.
Foods That Are OK to Offer Your Kitty
On occasion, Dr. Perea says it is safe to give your cat a little canned tuna or a small bit of cheese.
But keep in mind that felines only need about 200 to 250 calories a day, so go easy on the
portions, limiting treats to about 10 percent (20 to 25 calories) of their daily intake needs.

For more information on hazardous feline foods, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
website. And post the organization’s phone number — 888-426-4435 — on your refrigerator for
easy reference in the event of an emergency. The call center is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a
year.

 Alcohol. Yes, cats too can get drunk, but it can also easily cause severe liver and brain
damage. As little as a tablespoon can put an adult cat in a coma; a little more can kill her.

 Chocolate. The compound in chocolate that is of major concern is theobromine. It is in

all forms of chocolate, and most concentrated in dark chocolate and unsweetened baking
chocolate. Consumption can cause heart arrhythmias, muscle tremors, or seizures.
Chocolate also contains caffeine.

 Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks. These and other caffeinated drinks and foods can cause
your cat to become restless, have rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors.

 Dairy Products. Cats can become lactose intolerant when they become adults. If
ingested by these cats, dairy products can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

 Fat Trimmings, Raw Meat, Eggs, Fish. Please consult your veterinarian or a veterinary
nutritionist first before adding these foods to your cat's diet, as there is a risk vomiting,
diarrhea, Salmonella or E. coli associated with these foods for some animals, especially
when given improperly. Fat trimmings can also cause pancreatitis in cats.

 Grapes and Raisins. Cats are not likely to eat these, and there are no reports of cats
becoming ill from these foods. However, dogs can suffer acute kidney failure from eating
grapes or raisins, so it is best to not to risk your cat's health and not let him eat these
foods.

 Onions and Garlic. All members of the onion family can cause problems if eaten in
sufficient quantity. A little bit of onion or garlic in some sauce is not likely to cause any
problems. However, eating a clove of garlic or a green onion may cause digestive upset.
Eating some type of onion on a regular basis could cause anemia. Baby food made from
meat is often seasoned with onion or garlic, so read the labels carefully if you feed these
to your cat.

 Tuna. Tuna when made into cat food is perfectly fine for cats. On the other hand, tuna
sold for human consumption may cause digestive upset when given as an occasional treat
in small amounts. It can even cause a painful condition called steatitis, or inflammation of
the body's fat, when fed to cats on a regular basis.
 Xylitol. This is a sweetener used in a lot of sugar-free foods, especially chewing gum.
There are no records of cats becoming ill from this product, but in dogs it can cause a
severe drop in blood sugar followed by liver failure. Therefore it is better to be safe and
not let your cat eat foods that contain this ingredient.
1 / 21

Dangerous Foods?
Because they're such picky eaters, we sometimes think cats know what’s best for them when it's
time to eat. But the fact that they'll walk away from a piece of bad meat doesn't mean they'll
bypass an open can of tuna. And that can of tuna can be just as dangerous. In fact, you may be
surprised to learn some of the common foods your cats should never eat.

Tuna
Cats can be addicted to tuna, whether it's packed for cats or for humans. Some tuna now and then
probably won't hurt. But a steady diet of tuna prepared for humans can lead to malnutrition
because it won't have all the nutrients a cat needs. And, too much tuna can cause mercury
poisoning. Remember the saying, "Honest as a cat when the meat's out of reach." Your cat will
see an open can of tuna next to the sink as a dinner invitation.

Onions, Garlic, Chives

Onion in all forms -- powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated -- can break down a cat's red blood
cells, leading to anemia. That's true even for the onion powder that's found in some baby foods.
An occasional small dose probably won't hurt. But eating a large quantity once or eating smaller
amounts regularly can cause onion poisoning. Along with onions, garlic and chives can cause
gastrointestinal upset.

Alcohol
Beer, liquor, wine, foods containing alcohol -- none of it is good for your cat. That's because
alcohol has the same effect on a cat's liver and brain that it has on humans. But it takes far less to
do its damage. Just two teaspoons of whisky can cause a coma in a 5-pound cat, and one more
teaspoon could kill it. The higher the proof, the worse the symptoms.

Milk and Other Dairy Products

What could be wrong with offering your cat a saucer of milk or a piece of cheese? Most cats are
lactose-intolerant. Their digestive system cannot process dairy foods, and the result can be
digestive upset with diarrhea.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins have often been used as treats for pets. But it's not a good idea. Although it
isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. And, a small amount can
make a cat ill. Repeated vomiting and hyperactivity are early signs. Although some cats show no
ill effects, it's best not to give your cat any grapes and to keep grapes and raisins off countertops
and other places accessible to your cat.

Caffeine
Caffeine in large enough quantities can be fatal for a cat. And there is no antidote. Symptoms of
caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and
fits. In addition to tea and coffee -- including beans and grounds -- caffeine can be found in
cocoa, chocolate, colas, and stimulant drinks such as Red Bull. It's also in some cold medicines
and painkillers.
8 / 21

Chocolate
Chocolate can be lethal for cats. Although most cats won't eat it on their own, they can be coaxed
to eat it by owners and others who think they are giving the cat a treat. The toxic agent in
chocolate is theobromine. It's in all kinds of chocolate, even white chocolate. The most
dangerous kinds, though, are dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate. Eating chocolate
can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and death.

Candy and Gum

Candy, gum, toothpaste, baked goods, and some diet foods are sweetened with xylitol. Xylitol
can cause an increase in the insulin circulating through your cat's body, which will cause the cat's
blood sugar to drop. Xylitol can also lead to liver failure. Initial symptoms include vomiting,
lethargy, and loss of coordination. The cat may have seizures soon after ingesting the xylitol, and
liver failure can occur within just a few days.

Fat Trimmings and Bones

Table scraps often contain fat trimmed off of meat and bones. Both fat and bones may be
dangerous for cats. Fat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause intestinal upset, with vomiting and
diarrhea. And a cat can choke on a bone. Bones can also splinter and cause an obstruction or
lacerations of your cat's digestive system.
Raw Eggs
There are two problems with giving your cat raw eggs. The first is the possibility of food
poisoning from bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. The second is rare problem but that a protein
in raw egg whites, called avidin, could interfere with the absorption of the B vitamin biotin. This
can cause skin problems as well as problems with your cat's coat.

Raw Meat and Fish

Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. In
addition, an enzyme in raw fish destroys thiamine, which is an essential B vitamin for your cat.
A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma.

Dog Food
An occasional bite of dog food won't hurt your cat. But dog food is not a substitute for cat food.
They do have many of the same ingredients. But cat food is specially formulated for a cat's
needs, which include more protein as well as certain vitamins and fatty acids. A steady diet of
dog food can cause your cat to be severely malnourished.

Liver
Small amounts of liver are OK, but eating too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity. This is a
serious condition that can affect your cat's bones. Symptoms include deformed bones, bone
growths on the elbows and spine, and osteoporosis. Vitamin A toxicity can also cause death.

Too Many Treats

Eating too much too often can do the same thing to cats that it does to humans. It can lead to
obesity and even diabetes.

Yeast Dough
Before it's baked, bread dough needs to rise. And, that's exactly what it would do in your cat's
stomach if your cat ate it. As it swells inside, the dough can stretch the abdomen and cause
severe pain. In addition, when the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol
that can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Your Medicine
Ingesting a drug prescribed for humans is one of the most common causes of poisoning in cats.
Just as you would do for your children, put all medicines where your cat can't get to them. And
never give your cat any over-the-counter medicine unless advised to do so by your vet.
Ingredients such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are common in pain relievers and cold medicine.
And they can be deadly for your cat.
Human Foods Are Not Meant for Cats

Let's face it: some cats are inveterate "bums" and will beg and plead most appealingly while you
try to eat. While I will (rarely) give a cat a tidbit of chicken or turkey from my plate, it's a
practice I don't encourage as a regular habit for several reasons. First, because cats need the
nutrients specifically provided for them in good, premium cat foods, and any "extras" that they
consume will take away their appetites for their regular meals.

A sliver of turkey or chicken from your dinner plate certainly won't kill a cat, but you're helping
him develop bad habits. What happens when Aunt Phoebe comes for dinner and Simon jumps on
her lap to scarf up her meal?

However, the main reason I'd discourage feeding cats "people food" is that there are a number of
foods that are toxic to cats. You may have forgotten that the gravy slathered over your
Thanksgiving turkey used broth that was flavored with onion, among other things. While it is
tasty and harmless to humans, onions are very toxic to cats. The following is a list of foods that
cats should never eat:

Onions, Garlic, & Related Root Vegetables

Onions contain a substance (N-propyl disulphide) which destroys red blood cells in the cat,
causing a form of anemia called Heinz body anemia. Garlic contains a similar substance in a
lesser amount.

Green Tomatoes, Green (raw Potatoes)

These foods are members of the Solanaceae family of plants, which includes the Deadly
Nightshade, and contain a bitter, poisonous alkaloid called Glycoalkaloid Solanine, which can
cause violent lower gastrointestinal symptoms.

The leaves and stems are particularly toxic. (Tomatoes in pet foods are ripe, and should cause no
concern because they appear in relatively small amounts)

Chocolate

It's becoming more widely known that chocolate is very toxic to both cats and dogs.
Theobromine is the offending substance here. Janet Tobiassen Crosby, D.V.M.

has an excellent article on the symptoms, effects, and treatment of chocolate toxicity.

Grapes and Raisins

These foods' toxicity has mainly been found in dogs, in quantities of varying amounts. The
ASPCA advises: "As there are still many unknowns with the toxic potential of grapes and
raisins, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center advises not giving grapes or raisins to pets in
any amount." That's good enough for me.
Avocado

While avocado is healthful for humans, it is mildly toxic to cats. The leaves, seed, tree bark, and
the fruit itself contain Persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Milk

Although milk is not toxic to cats, it may have adverse effects. Simply put, adult cats fed a
nutritious diet don't need milk. Also, many cats are lactose-intolerant, which means that the
lactose in milk and milk products produces stomach upset, cramps, and gasiness. If your cat
loves milk,and begs for it, a small amount of cream may be okay, two or three times a week.
(The more fat in the milk, the less lactose.) Another compromise is CatSip, a product made from
skim milk with an enzyme added that helps the digestion of lactose. Catsip is available in
supermarkets such as Safeway, Albertson's and A&P, as well as pet products chains, such as
PetSmart and Petco.

You can also order it online at Amazon

The Sweetener Xylitol

While Xylitol is deadly to dogs, causing hypoglycemia, and potential liver failure, so far, the Pet
Poison Helpline has not indicated its toxicity to cats. My personal policy is "When in doubt, take
no chances."

These are the most commonly seen "people foods" that are potentially harmful to cats. The
bottom line is to feed your cat nutritious food developed with his needs in mind and choose treats
designed for cats instead of table scraps.
he Top 10 Most Toxic Foods To Cats
May 11, 2013 at 10:00pm

10. Raw Eggs

When you have lots of stocks of eggs in your kitchen, make sure that you put it in a save
container so that your cats with not play with it. In fact, you should not feed you cats with raw
eggs because these are very harmful to them. There is great possibility that they suffer food
poisoning from bacteria like salmonella. This can also cause some skin problems of your cat.

9. Fat Trimmings and Bones

Make sure that you do not feed your cat with those bones that can hardly be beaten and those
meat fats. Cooked and uncooked fats are actually very dangerous to your cat since it can cause
intestinal upset, with vomiting and diarrhea. Do not offer some bones to your cat because they
cannot chew them properly, thus it can choke them and even lacerate their digestive system.

8. Candy and Gum

Cats are not allowed to eat some candies, gum, toothpaste, bakes goods and some diet foods that
are sweetened with xylitol. You must not give these foods to your cats because it may cause liver
failure to your pet. Xylitol can increase the amount of insulin in your body, thus causing the cat’s
blood sugar to drop. It can also cause seizures to your cats.

7. Chocolate

People really like some bites of chocolates, but it is too bad if you would share it to your cats.
Chocolate scan really cause the death of your cat. It actually contains a toxic agent called
theobromine. When you intentionally or unintentionally feed your cats with chocolates, they will
surely experience abnormal heart rhythm, tremors,seizures and death.

6. Caffeine

Anything that has caffeine is too dangerous for your cats. You should not give some foods that
have caffeine because it is fatal for them. If ever your cat was able to eat or drink some foods
with large amount of caffeine, there is no doubt that they will experience restlessness, rapid
breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors,and fits. Actually, caffeine is one of the most toxic
foods for cats.

5. Grapes and Raisins

Some pet owners really love to feed their cats with grapes or raisins as treat for a job well done.
Well, this idea is not really advisable because these foods are toxic to the health of your cat.They
will surely experience kidney failures if you always feed them with these kinds of foods. Early
signs of toxicity with these foods are repeated vomiting and hyperactivity.
4. Alcohol

Any food containing some alcohol is strictly prohibited to your cats. It actually affects the liver
function and the brain function of the cats, just like humans. A small amount of alcohol will
surely harm your cat. A two-teaspoon of whisky can definitely cause a coma in a five-pound cat.
There is no doubt that more than that amount will surely kill your cat, thus alcohol is very toxic
to your cat.

3. Milk And Other Dairy Products

It is very shocking to know that milk and other dairy products are one of the most toxic foods for
cats when these foods are said to be healthy foods. Milk is actually good to be given to kittens
but not for adult cats because they cannot tolerate it anymore. Adult cats will actually feel any
alterations in their digestive system, thus leading to digestive upset with diarrhea.

2. Onions, Garlic, Chives

Feeding some foods with onions or some onions to your cat will not really give some good effect
to your cat.These foods will just give some health problems to your pet. Onions when taken in
large amount can break down a cat’s red blood cells, thus leading to anemia.Frequent eating of
onions can really poison your cat and together with garlic and chives, it can really lead to
gastrointestinal upset.

1. Tuna

Cats do not really mind what they are eating whether it is good for their health or not. They will
just eat whatever their owner will feed them. Sometimes, there are cat owners who will feed their
pet with some tuna. Well, this is not really the best food for your cats since it can definitely
poison them. It can actually cause mercury poisoning to your cats, thus this really makes it as the
most toxic food for cats
Eight human foods that are poisonous to cats
1. Home
2. Blog
3. Eight human foods that are poisonous to cats

What not to feed your cat

Any food not specifically designed for cats can affect the digestive system, causing vomiting,
diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. Here are some foods of particular concern.

1. Alcohol

As little as a tablespoon of alcohol can lead to problems for your cat. It can cause severe liver
and brain damage.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine. While this bitter-tasting stimulant is found in all forms, it’s
most concentrated in dark and unsweetened chocolate. Ingestion can cause heart problems,
muscle tremors, or seizures. Chocolate also contains caffeine.

3. Coffee, tea and energy drinks

These contain caffeine — it can cause your cat to become restless, suffer from rapid breathing,
heart palpitations and muscle tremors.

4. Dairy products

Some cats are lactose intolerant and if they eat dairy products it can cause vomiting and
diarrhoea.
5. Fat trimmings, raw meat, raw eggs and raw fish

Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or a painful condition called pancreatitis (from excessive fat) and
there is also a risk of Salmonella or E. coli associated with these foods.

6. Grapes and raisins

Dogs can suffer acute kidney failure from eating grapes or raisins — and although toxicity in
cats is only anecdotal we would strongly advise that you keep these foods out of reach of your
cat.

7. Onions and garlic

All members of the onion family can cause problems if eaten in sufficient quantity. A little bit of
onion or garlic in some sauce is not likely to cause any problems. However, eating a clove of
garlic or a green onion may cause digestive upset. Eating some type of onion on a regular basis
could cause anemia.

Suggested Tweet
Learn about the eight everyday foods that your curious cat should never eat, with
@VetsNowUK. https://goo.gl/Xzz7O0

Tweet

8. Xylitol

This is a sweetener used in a lot of sugar-free foods, especially chewing gum. There are no
records of cats becoming ill from this product, but in dogs it can cause a severe drop in blood
sugar — which can cause seizures and convulsions or even death — followed by liver failure.
It’s better to be safe and not let your cat eat foods that contain this ingredient. Click here for our
full article on xylitol.

Immediate care
If you suspect your cat has eaten something he shouldn’t try to determine how much she may
have eaten and contact your vet for specific advice. In many cases small quantities may not cause
a problem but larger quantities may require treatment.

Prevention

The best prevention is simply to keep your food out of reach of your cat. If you choose to give
your cat human food, follow these guidelines:

 The food should only be considered a treat and only given on the odd occasion to prevent
gastrointestinal upset and nutritional imbalances
 If you wouldn’t eat it, don’t feed it to your cat. If you wouldn’t eat the food raw, then
your cat shouldn’t either

Treatment

Treatment is generally supportive until the symptoms resolve. This may involve hospitalization,
intravenous fluids (a drip) and blood tests to monitor organ function.

Share this post

 Facebook
 Twitter
 LinkedIn
 Google +
 Email

About the Author

Orlaith O'Mahony

A graduate of the School of Veterinary Medicine at University College Dublin, Orlaith works as
a veterinary surgeon in Vets Now's state-of-the-art pet emergency hospital in Manchester.