Nutrition plays a vital role in the health of dogs and cats. Although they may seem attracted to our foods, not everything we eat is safe for them. Some foods can be toxic and dangerous , causing digestive, neurological, or even fatal problems. In this guide, you will discover which foods to absolutely avoid , the risks associated with them, and safe alternatives for a balanced diet.
1. List of Prohibited Foods for Dogs and Cats
Here are some of the most dangerous foods for our four-legged friends:
🍫 Chocolate and Cocoa
- Contains theobromine , which is toxic to dogs and cats.
- Effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, convulsions, death in severe cases.
🧅 Onion, Garlic, Leek and Chives
- They contain thiosulfates , which destroy red blood cells causing anemia.
- Effects: Weakness, lethargy, dark urine, difficulty breathing.
🍇 Grapes and Raisins
- Even in small amounts they can cause acute kidney failure in dogs .
- Effects: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney failure.
🥑 Avocado
- Contains persin , which is toxic to dogs and cats.
- Effects: Digestive problems, breathing difficulties, fluid accumulation in the chest.
☕ Coffee, Tea and Energy Drinks
- They contain caffeine and theine , which are highly toxic.
- Effects: Hyperactivity, tremors, increased blood pressure, convulsions.
🍞 Alcohol and Yeast Doughs
- Even small amounts of alcohol are dangerous.
- Effects: Vomiting, disorientation, difficulty breathing, coma.
🥛 Milk and Dairy Products (in large quantities)
- Many dogs and cats are lactose intolerant .
- Effects: Diarrhea, cramps, abdominal swelling.
🥩 Cooked Bones and Fatty Meat Leftovers
- Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal perforation .
- Fatty meat can cause acute pancreatitis .
🍬 Artificial Sweeteners (Xylitol)
- Extremely toxic to dogs, causing severe hypoglycemia .
- Effects: Vomiting, convulsions, liver damage.
🌰 Nuts (Macadamia Nuts and other nuts)
- Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs.
- Effects: Vomiting, tremors, fever, muscle weakness.
2. Safe and Healthy Alternatives
If you want to offer your dog or cat tasty and safe snacks, here are some alternatives:
✔ Safe Fruits : Apple (seedless), Banana, Watermelon (seedless), Carrots. ✔ Healthy Proteins : Boiled Chicken without seasoning, Turkey, Fish without bones. ✔ Natural Snacks for Dogs and Cats : Cowhide Sticks, Specific Kibble, Pet Biscuits. ✔ Safe Vegetables : Zucchini, Cucumber, Spinach, Pumpkin.
3. What to Do in Case of Food Poisoning?
If your dog or cat ingests any of the toxic foods listed above, act immediately:
- Do not induce vomiting without veterinary advice .
- Contact your veterinarian or an animal emergency room immediately .
- Watch for any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or seizures.
- Bring the ingested food or the product label with you to help your veterinarian diagnose.
Conclusion
Many foods we eat every day are extremely dangerous for dogs and cats. Knowing what to avoid is essential to ensure a long and healthy life. Always prefer a balanced and specific diet for pets, without improvisation.
Have you ever had any experience with food poisoning in your dog or cat? Tell us in the comments!