Each year, thousands of pets are accidentally poisoned in the US. And many of these cases are caused by ingestion of toxic foods. In this fact sheet, we’ll highlight some of the most common human foods that are toxic to pets. Please be aware that ingestion of these foods can cause serious illness and even death in cats and dogs. For this reason, it is important to visit your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten any of the foods on this list.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine that can be highly toxic to cats and dogs. Eaten in large enough quantities, it can even cause fatality in pets. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous, as they contain higher levels of theobromine than white or milk chocolate. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and tremors.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are part of the Allium family of plants (which also includes leeks, chives, and shallots). They contain chemicals that can cause the destruction of red blood cells in your pet’s body. Symptoms of toxicity include weakness, vomiting, reduced appetite, and abdominal pain.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in food items such as candy, baked goods, peanut butter, and sugar-free gum. It is also a common ingredient in dental products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Symptoms of xylitol toxicity include vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, seizures, and collapse.
Grapes and Raisins
The exact substance in grapes and raisins that causes poisoning in cats and dogs is unknown. But ingestion of even small amounts can be potentially fatal. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and abdominal pain.
Alcohol
Ingestion of even small amounts of alcohol can cause life-threatening toxicity in pets. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, inebriation, seizures, and hypothermia (lowered body temperature). Please be aware that aside from alcoholic drinks, alcohol is found in products such as antifreeze, mouthwash, and hand sanitizers.
Raw Dough
Raw dough contains live yeast that causes a pet’s stomach to expand. When this happens, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition known as bloat can occur. The yeast in raw dough can also ferment in the stomach, leading to alcohol toxicity.
Caffeine
Pets are far more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than humans, and ingestion can lead to a number of dangerous symptoms. These include vomiting, restlessness, tachycardia (increased heart rate), seizures, and collapse. Aside from caffeinated drinks, caffeine can be found in diet pills, tea bags, and coffee grounds.
Protecting Your Pet
Please keep your pet away from dangerous foods to prevent accidental poisoning. We recommend keeping all food items in closed cabinets or other inaccessible areas. It is also important to monitor your pet closely to ensure that they are not exposed to dangerous foods. Finally, please visit your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten a dangerous food.
