Brought to You by Healthy Pets of Ohio
The holidays are a time for family, friends, and delicious food! While you’re enjoying your holiday feast, it’s natural to want to share some of the love (and food) with your furry family members. However, not all human treats are safe for pets. To ensure a safe and happy holiday season for your pets, here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts of treating them during your holiday celebrations.
Do’s: Safe Foods to Share with Your Pets
Here are some pet-friendly treats you can safely share in moderation:
- Cooked, Skinless Turkey
Plain, unseasoned turkey meat is a great source of protein. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones. - Plain Sweet Potatoes
A small amount of plain, cooked sweet potato (without butter, sugar, or marshmallows) can be a healthy, vitamin-packed treat. - Green Beans and Carrots
These crunchy veggies are low in calories and high in nutrients. Serve them steamed or raw, but avoid adding any seasonings or butter. - Pumpkin (Plain, Unsweetened)
Canned or cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) can aid digestion and is a tasty treat. - Apples (No Seeds)
Slices of fresh apple can make a crisp, refreshing snack. Be sure to remove the seeds, as they can be toxic.
Don’ts: Foods to Avoid
Some festive foods that are safe for humans can be harmful or even toxic to pets. Keep these off your pet’s plate:
- Chocolate and Desserts
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Sugar, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and rich desserts can also cause serious health issues. - Turkey Bones and Skin
Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or digestive injuries. The fatty skin can upset your pet’s stomach and lead to pancreatitis. - Stuffing and Gravy
Many recipes include onions, garlic, or other seasonings that are toxic to pets. - Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
Even small amounts of alcohol or caffeine can be dangerous, causing severe illness. - Nuts and Raisins
Certain nuts (like macadamia nuts) and raisins or grapes can be toxic to pets, leading to kidney failure or other complications.
Healthy Treat Alternatives
If you want to make your pet feel extra special during the holidays, consider whipping up a homemade treat just for them!
- Pet-Friendly Cookies: Use pet-safe ingredients like peanut butter (xylitol-free), oat flour, and pumpkin to make a festive snack.
- Frozen Treats: Blend plain yogurt with a bit of pumpkin and freeze in molds for a fun holiday treat.
Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Meal
- Create a Safe Space: The hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Provide them with a quiet space to retreat to if needed.
- Educate Guests: Let guests know not to feed your pet table scraps, and provide pet-safe treats if they want to share something.
- Watch for Signs of Distress: If your pet eats something they shouldn’t, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, and contact us at Healthy Pets of Ohio immediately.
We’re Here for You!
If you have any questions about what’s safe for your pet or need emergency care during the holidays, Healthy Pets of Ohio has you covered. Contact us at any of our Central Ohio locations, and let’s keep your pets happy and healthy this holiday season!
Happy Holidays from the team at Healthy Pets of Ohio!