Thanksgiving, a time for family, friends, and of course, a delectable spread of food. While we indulge in our culinary delights, it’s crucial to remember that not all Thanksgiving treats are suitable for our beloved pets. Certain foods, while harmless to us, can pose serious health risks to our furry companions.
“A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potato or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn’t pose a problem,” according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “However, don’t allow your pets to overindulge, as they could wind up with a case of stomach upset, diarrhea or even worse — an inflammatory condition of the pancreas known as pancreatitis. In fact, it’s best keep pets on their regular diets during the holidays.”
Here’s what you can and can’t give your fur babies this season:
Off-Limits Items: A Thanksgiving No-No
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Turkey Bones: Cooked turkey bones are a choking hazard and can splinter, causing internal injuries. Keep them out of reach of your curious canine or feline friend.
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Turkey Skin and Gravy: Loaded with fat, turkey skin and gravy can trigger pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Resist the temptation to share these with your pet.
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Stuffing: Onions, garlic, and other alliums commonly found in stuffing are toxic to pets. Steer clear of offering this dish to your furry family member.
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Chocolate and Sweet Delights: Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance poisonous to pets. Symptoms range from vomiting and diarrhea to hyperactivity and seizures. Keep chocolate and other sweet treats firmly out of reach.
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Raisins and Grapes: These seemingly innocuous fruits can lead to kidney failure in pets. Avoid sharing them with your furry friend.
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Ham: High in fat and salt, ham can upset your pet’s stomach and cause digestive issues. It’s best to keep ham off the pet menu.
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Onions and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables, when ingested by pets, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. Keep them off your pet’s plate.
Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Treats
While some Thanksgiving dishes are off-limits for pets, there are plenty of safe and nutritious options to share with your furry friend:
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Plain Cooked Turkey or Chicken: A great source of protein, plain cooked turkey or chicken makes a delightful treat for your pet.
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Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Rich in fiber and vitamins, cooked sweet potatoes are a healthy and delicious snack for your pet.
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Plain Cooked Pumpkin: Known for its digestive benefits, plain cooked pumpkin is a great choice for your furry companion.
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Green Beans: Low in calories and fat, green beans are a refreshing and healthy snack for your pet.
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Carrots: Packed with vitamins, carrots promote dental health and provide a crunchy treat for your pet.
