Keep your pets away from these toxic food items
Some human food items can be harmful to dogs and cats. You need to be aware of what these toxic foods and drinks are and store them securely, so your pet is out of harm’s way.
Common toxic foods for dogs and cats include:
Xylitol – A sugar-free sweeter used in many food products, xylitol can be fatal to dogs. It can lead to low blood sugar, liver failure, permanent brain damage and seizures. If your dog has eaten an item that contains xylitol, this is an emergency! Call us right away.
Chocolate and Caffeine – Toxic to dogs in particular because of their sweet tooth, chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and heart complications, among other symptoms. Pets may also be attracted to sugary caffeinated beverages and caffeinated snacks.
Garlic, onions, shallots and chives – These foods can break down your pet’s red blood cells causing dangerous anemia. Trace amounts are unlikely to be dangerous but if in doubt, do not share these items with our pet and call right away if your pet has ingested an item containing one of these items.
Grapes and raisins – These fruits contain tartaric acid which can be very dangerous to dogs. Even small amounts can cause kidney damage. While fatalities are rare, they have been reported.
Macadamia nuts – Very toxic in dogs as it can lead to muscle tremors, ataxia, vomiting and fever.
