Human Food Dos and Don’ts For Pets

Human Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets and Common Pet Allergies

Pet-safe/toxic People Foods

If you have a pet, you might know how tempting it is to give your dog or cat food from your plate. Especially when they give you those eyes. But there are many human foods that are toxic for our pets and should be avoided. If you believe your pet has come into contact with something toxic or poisonous, call the ASPCA Poison Control Center immediately at 888-426-4435.

Below is a list of foods you should AVOID giving your pet according to the ASPCA. For descriptions about why these items are toxic for your pet, please refer to the ASPCA’s article here: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

Alcohol (vomiting, diarrhea, decrease coordination)

Chocolate, coffee, caffeine (methylxanthines)

Citrus (irritation and nervous system depression in higher amounts)

Coconut and coconut oil (milk/oils may cause stomach upset)

Grapes/raisins (kidney failure)

Nuts (high in fats/oils — vomiting, diarrhea, potential pancreatitis)

Milk and Dairy (digestive upset, diarrhea)

Onions, garlic, chives (gastrointestinal irritation, blood cell damage)

Raw/undercooked meat, eggs, and bones (Salmonella, E. Coli, splinters)

Salt or salty snacks (extreme thirst, urination, sodium ion poisoning)

Xylitol (sweetener – release of insulin, hypoglycemia, liver failure)

Yeast dough (gas, stomach bloating/twisting which can be life threatening)

The American Kennel Club provided a reference to foods that are specifically ok for DOGS. That list can be found below. To read more, please refer to the link. http://www.akc.org/content/health/articles/human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/

Please note! Human foods that are ok for pets should still ALWAYS be given in moderation. Typically, they should never make up more than 10% of your pet’s daily diet. Likewise, it is wise to consult a veterinarian in regards to your pet’s diet in case of any allergies or reactions your pet might specifically have.

Food that are ok for dogs:

Fully cooked eggs and meats (pork, turkey, fish)

Cheese (in small doses)

Peanut Butter

Popcorn (plain air popped, unsalted, and unbuttered)

Honey

Below is a list of foods that are specifically ok for CATS to eat according to Pet360. For further descriptions, please refer to the link. http://www.pet360.com/slideshow/cat/nutrition/15-human-foods-that-are-safe-for-cats/1/jfcxrm2qne-bl4aev3wl6g#/slideshow

Foods that are ok for cats:

Spinach (Vitamins A, C, K, Iron and Calcium)

Cooked eggs (Protein, B Vitamins)

Cantaloupe (antioxidants and beta-carotene)

Cooked meats (including chicken, turkey, and salmon)

Bananas (Potassium and soluble fibers)

Oatmeal (Energy, B vitamins)

Pumpkin (Fiber)

Cheese (Calcium and protein)

Bread (Fiber and protein)

Apples and blueberries (Fiber, vitamins A and C)

Peas (Fiber, vitamins A and C)

Common Pet Allergies

If you believe your dog or cat has an allergy, call your veterinarian. There are many limited ingredient diet foods out there, as well as foods that are great for dogs and cats with sensitive stomachs or allergies. The pays to check the ingredient list in your dog or cat’s food.

Symptoms of allergies in pets include but are not limited to itching, skin irritations, licking, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your pet experiences any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian.

For more information about dog food allergies, please reference Dog Food Adviser here: https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/hypoallergenic-dog-foods/

Common food allergies for dogs:

Various meats including chicken, beef, rabbit, pork, fish, and lamb

Eggs

Corn

Wheat

Grains

Soy

Dairy

Ingredients that are recommended for dogs with these allergies include but are not limited to venison, potato, and oatmeal. Brands that offer limited ingredient diets or low allergen foods include Natural Balance, Acana, Blue Buffalo, Nature’s Recipe, Merrick, Orijen, and Wellness. Some of these brands offer these L.I.D. foods for both dogs and cats.

Common food allergies for cats:

Beef

Lamb

Seafood

Corn

Soy

Dairy

Wheat gluten

If you ever have questions about your pet’s diet, consult a veterinarian. Be sure to feed them table foods in moderation and always check ingredients in your pet’s food when you are deciding on a brand. Trying and sticking with high quality brands to begin with is a good way to start your pet in the right direction to a healthy, holistic, and/or well-balanced diet. We love our pets and want them to be around a long time. Take the time to do some research. Your pet is worth it!