Beware! Human food that is poisonous to dogs and cats

Easter is fast approaching, and homes all over Australia are once more crammed with chocolate eggs and bunnies. Yet, whilst many pet owners are well aware that chocolate is toxic to both cats and dogs, accidents still happen. Indeed, pets don't come with their own built-in 'poison detector' and some of them love chocolate as much as we do! But chocolate isn't the only item that's life threatening for your four legged friend. Below is a handy list of some of the most common food products that are poisonous to cats and dogs.

Chocolate can be highly toxic to your cat and dog, which is why you'd never dream of 'feeding' it to them.  However, you might be tempted to place a decorative bowl filled with chocolate eggs on the coffee table at Easter. Unfortunately, your pet can secretly munch on these during an unguarded moment. Not a good idea, because chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is poisonous to cats and dogs. The purer (and darker) the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. What constitutes a life-threatening dose depends on the type of chocolate, as well as the size of your cat or dog. If your pet has accidentally eaten chocolate, then pay close attention: are they restless, shivering, vomiting, panting, drinking and urinating excessively? Then take them to your vet immediately!

Grapes and raisins
Another food that is toxic to cats and dogs is the grape, and in its dried form, the raisin. Grapes and raisins are harmful to your dog or cat's kidneys and consumption can lead to acute renal failure. Symptoms include shivering, lethargy, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. Just a small handful of raisins is enough to poison your pet, so be careful with this seemingly harmless treat!

Onion and garlic
Garlic, and everything that belongs to the onion family (including leeks and spring onions) are poisonous to your cat and dog. This applies to the cooked variety too, so leftovers containing fried onion are also a big no-no. The toxic effect of onion causes damage to your dog's red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia. This manifests in symptoms such as lethargy, lack of appetite, and rapid breathing and heartbeat. If your cat or dog is displaying these symptoms after consuming these vegetables, call your vet without delay.

Some vegetables
Some vegetables are not good for your cat or dog either, so be careful with tomatoes, peppers, avocado and aubergine.

Be careful with nuts
The majority of nuts are bad for your dog in particular (and may make your cat sick), but especially watch out for macadamia nuts and walnuts. Peanuts are not nuts, but rather legumes, so a little lick of peanut butter for your dog as a reward is okay (unless of course your dog is allergic to peanuts). Don't forget that peanut butter is extremely high in fat and must therefore be only be given sparingly.

Exercise caution with salt, xylitol, and alcohol
Many so-called 'light' products contain xylitol, a sweetener that's extremely toxic to cats and dogs. Be careful never to share any of your 'light' sweet treats with your furry friend. The same also applies to salty products: if your cat or dog ingests too much salt, they can suffer from salt poisoning. This may lead to symptoms such as vomiting, restlessness and diarrhoea. Always consult your vet if you notice any strange symptoms. Lots of products might contain added salt without your knowledge. Keep a sharp eye out for these 'hidden' salt products, which are typically found in crisps, peanuts and bread. And although you'd never contemplate giving your pet alcohol, some mischievous critters might lovingly lick your glass clean whilst you're not looking. PLEASE exercise caution where alcohol is concerned, because it's extremely bad for your pet.

Photo: Nao Cha

So, what can your pet enjoy?
Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy snacks that you can safely feed your pet, including chicken, beef and fish. Always cook fish to be on the safe side (and beware of bones!). You can also give your pet a selection of vegetables to nibble on, such as carrots, broccoli (both best cooked if fed to your cat) or a piece of cucumber. Some pets are fond of fruit: apple (avoiding the poisonous seeds!) and banana are always a great option, but in moderation as they are high in sugar. And, if you're particularly disappointed that you cannot give your cat or dog a chocolate egg this Easter, then why not treat them to an ordinary boiled egg instead?

Happy Easter!  :-)