The bodies of cats and dogs are built differently from us humans. While they can still eat certain human foods, others can be poisonous. As a pet parent, it is important to know which foods can cause harm to your fur babies so that you can keep these edibles away from their reach.  

The list of toxic foods for pets is surprisingly long. Read on to learn about the top ​ten​​​ items ​​ commonly found in households to ensure your pups and kittles don’t get their furry paws on them.  

Toxic Foods for Pets 

Many pet owners look for natural treats for cats and dogs instead of feeding them store-bought ones. But before you start sharing foods with them, it is important to know whether or not they are entirely safe for them.  

But you don’t only need to be on the lookout for solid food items; some beverages can also be dangerous for your fur family. Let’s take a look at both.  

Harmful Foods for Pets 

Here is a list of all the foods that are harmful to your cats and dogs:  

Chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans, but the same is not the case for your felines and canines. Far from being a treat, chocolate is actually lethal for them.  

It is especially dangerous for pups and cats of all ages. The main reason why chocolate is considered toxic for pets is because of the presence of a compound called theobromine.  

Theobromine is present in all types of chocolates. It causes abnormal cardiac rhythm, often leading to diarrhoea, seizures, and tremors. In the worst-case scenario, it can prove to be fatal.  

But the good news is that most cats and dogs stay away from chocolate. But if you unknowingly ever feed them some, it can ​risk​​​ your fur baby’s life​​. Even if a small amount is ingested, you should immediately take them to the vet.  

While it may seem like a good idea to reward your pets with little bits of fat trimmings and bone from the leftovers at the dinner table, especially when they show you those irresistible eyes, however, both fat trimmings and cooked bones are dangerous for your cats and dogs.  

Fat trimmings pose a risk of tummy issues that can lead to severe diarrhoea and vomiting. They can even cause liver and pancreatic problems in some cases. But what about bones? Dogs usually chew on bones, so what seems to be the problem?  

​​In​​​ this case, the bones are cooked, which become brittle and dry. Moreover, they can also splinter. As a result, the splintered bones might tear organs, ultimately causing internal bleeding. As for cats, they aren’t huge fans of bones in the first place. But if they start eating one, it can be a choking hazard.  

Garlic and onions are used as basic ingredients for cooking. But they can prove to be deadly for cats and dogs. The main reason why garlic and onions are considered toxic foods for pets is because of the presence of thiosulphate.  

This compound is known for damaging red blood cells in cats and dogs, ultimately leading to anaemia. It doesn’t matter whether they are raw, cooked, dehydrated, or powdered; onions and garlic will contain thiosulphate in every form. They can put your pet’s life in danger if not treated in time.  

Macadamia nuts are another food item that should never be used as a treat for cats and dogs. They are toxic and can trigger adverse reactions even after ingesting small quantities.  

Typically, they cause black legs, seizures, weakness, loss of muscle control, diarrhoea, and vomiting. While they are more dangerous for dogs than cats, it is important that you keep these nuts away from both. The current known cause of their toxicity to pets is the high composition of fats and oils inside the nuts.  

When given in moderation, raw eggs are an excellent addition to meals for pets. But if they are consumed in excessive quantities, they can have the opposite effect. Instead of offering health benefits, raw eggs can reduce biotin levels, leading to skin problems and deteriorated fur quality.  

Salt is an essential seasoning used in every meal for humans. But for your pets, it is no less than poison. Of course, that doesn’t mean that ingesting small quantities will have them throwing up.  

However, if consumed excessively, it can lead to salt poisoning. This leads to severe side effects, such as brain swelling, seizures, and other neurological disorders. It can also cause vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, depression, and even death.  

The next time you take your fur babies to the beach, make sure they don’t drink any ocean water, as it is the number one cause of salt poisoning.  

Avocado is also on the list of toxic foods for pets. Though the fruit itself might not be harmful to your fur babies unless they are allergic to it, the seeds, on the other hand, can be toxic.  

If your doggo accidentally consumes avocado seeds, they can become lodged in the intestinal tract, stomach, or oesophagus, which can lead to death. If there are any avocado trees in your yard, make sure to keep your pets away from them, as the bark and leaves of avocado trees are also dangerous for your canine and feline friends.  

Harmful Beverages for Pets 

Now that you know which foods are toxic for your pets let’s look at the list of beverages that can be harmful to your cats and dogs.  

Alcohol is not healthy for us either, but it is ten times more dangerous for pets. Even two teaspoons of alcohol can put your pet’s life at stake. And it is not harmful only as a beverage. Mouthwash and fermented foods that contain alcohol are also toxic.  

Alcohol can cause tremors, seizures, respiratory failure, vomiting, and brain and liver damage. In some cases, it can even put your pets in a comma, often leading to death. Even a small sip is a big no for pets.  

While many of us run on caffeine, large quantities of caffeine can be lethal for your pets. Be it coffee, tea, or an energy drink, caffeine from any source can damage your pet’s nervous system and cause caffeine poisoning. Symptoms include palpitations, restlessness, muscle tremors, and rapid breathing.  

Though milk is not exactly toxic, it is not the best thing to give your cats and dogs. As they grow, their lactose tolerance decreases, making milk unsuitable for them. Milk and milk-based products aren’t something that should be a part of your pet’s diet. However, they can be given as occasional treats for cats and dogs.  

But during summers, instead of giving them regular yoghurt, you can opt for kefir, which contains low doses of lactose but offers similar benefits as milk and yoghurt.  

Other Ingredients to Lookout for 

Now you know the top 10 toxic foods for pets. On top of steering clear of these foods, there are some other ingredients commonly found in food items that should be kept away from pets. These include the following:  

Yeast 

Yeast is commonly used in making dough. While it is seemingly a harmless ingredient, it can cause your pet’s stomach to expand, leading to the twisting and tearing of organs. Some of the common symptoms of yeast ingestion include vomiting, a bloated stomach, and diarrhoea.  

Nutmeg 

Nutmeg is a widely used spice, but it can be a source of discomfort for pets. Typically, nutmeg causes tremors, loss of balance, and seizures.  

Xylitol 

Xylitol is a sugar substitute used in many products as an artificial sweetener. It is dangerous for pets as it can raise insulin levels immediately, eventually leading to liver failure.  

What to Feed Instead 

If you have to keep all these ingredients away from your fur babies, which foods can be used as treats for cats and dogs?  

Dehydrated tripe sticks, sausages, kefir, and raw bones are good options. Of course, there are plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables you can also offer as treats that aren’t only delicious but also provide your pets with essential vitamins and minerals. Pair them with a raw diet, and your pets will live a long and healthy life without falling sick.  

Some healthy options include:  

Other than fruits and vegetables, some natural herbs can also be used as treats. Not only do they help cure diseases, but they also endorse soothing effects without triggering adverse responses from the immune system.  

But even among herbs, some can be toxic, so be careful before picking out herbal supplements. Some safe options that you can stick with include:  

Herbs to Avoid 

Besides the ones mentioned above, some herbs can be extremely dangerous for your pets. Here are some that you should avoid:  

Marijuana