Dangerous foods to avoid for cats and dogs

Our fur babies would eat just about anything but there are really dangerous foods for dogs and cats that we must avoid; no matter how cute they look begging. When it comes to our fur babies, we can never be too careful. Maintaining our pet’s health is every pet parent’s duty.

To ensure our dogs and cats’ health and well-being, we must know what foods are dangerous for dogs and cats. Below is a list of the most common foods that can be dangerous to the beloved members of your family. Take special note that this list is not exhaustive. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before feeding your pets foods that are not meant for animals. Is budget pet product safe? 

What are Dangerous Foods for Cats?

1. Onions, Chives, and Garlic. First on the list of foods dangerous for cats are herbs. Chives, onions, and garlic can damage your cats’ red blood cells. They can also gastrointestinal discomfort. They are especially toxic when ingested in large amounts but concentrates and powdered forms are also toxic.

2. Raw Eggs, Meats, and Bones. Cats are also susceptible to E.coli and salmonella poisoning which can be caused by eating raw meats. Raw eggs can cause skin problems. Raw bones, on the other hand, are a choking hazard, could damage their teeth, and perforate their digestive tract.

3. Chocolate and Caffeine. We can’t talk about what foods are dangerous for cats without mentioning chocolate and caffeine. These are just as toxic to cats as they are to dogs. Chocolates can cause vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, seizures, heart issues, abdominal pains, increased thirst, high body temperatures, among other discomforts no one wants for their cats.

4. Milk and Other Dairy Products. When asked what foods are dangerous for cats, milk would be the last thing most people will think of. Who would have thought that milk will be toxic to cats? Cats are seriously lactose-intolerant, so they will not be able to digest milk or other dairy products. This could lead to an upset tummy, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.

5. Grapes. Grapes are severely toxic to cats. Even in small amounts, grapes and/or raisins can cause kidney failure. Within hours of consumption, your cat can experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, tummy pains, and decrease or difficulty in urinating.

A special note on cats. Cats are notoriously good at hiding their pains and discomfort because they don’t want to be seen as weak. As a pet parent, it’s your job to keep toxic foods out of their reach and make sure they eat healthy.

Dangerous Foods for Dogs

1. Nuts. Although macadamia nuts are the most toxic, most nuts are just bad for your dog so simply avoid feeding them any kind of nuts. Nuts can increase the growth of bladder stones and they can weaken your dog’s bones.

2. Mushrooms. Mushrooms can be very toxic, even fatal, to dogs. Some kinds of mushrooms are more dangerous than others; so to be sure, it’s best to avoid giving your dog any kind of mushroom.

3. Avocados. Avocados may be delicious for humans but to dogs, they are very, very toxic to dogs. Every part of the avocado is bad for your good boys and girls. The skin and the pit can cause blockages, choking, and other serious complications. The meat can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

4. Alcohol. Alcohol is toxic to dogs. When ingested, even in small doses, alcohol in food and beverages can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, poor coordination, depression, difficulty in breathing, seizures, comatose, blood issues, and even death. There is nothing funny about a drunk dog so make sure you keep the booze out of their reach.

5. Chocolate and caffeine. Chocolates and caffeine are just as toxic to dogs as they are to cats. Theobromine, a substance found in chocolates and caffeine, affects your dog’s stomach, heart, kidneys, and central nervous system. When ingested, signs include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity or restlessness, tremors or seizures.

No one wants to see our dogs or cats in pain. No one wants to lose their pets too early. As pet parents, it is our responsibility to ensure our pets only eat the foods that will make them healthy and happy. Certain foods that might be good for humans can be extremely toxic to your dogs and cats and lead to a host of health issues, and even death. Protect your fur babies by arming yourself with knowledge of what the dangerous foods for dogs and cats are and consulting your vets whenever you plan on changing your pet’s diet.