Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: Thanksgiving Safety Tips Every Pet Owner Should Know

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and indulgent feasts, but while you're filling your plate, it's important to protect your pets from dangerous holiday foods. Many traditional dishes that humans enjoy can be toxic to dogs and cats, causing digestive issues or even life-threatening reactions.

At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we often see a spike in pet emergencies during the holiday season caused by well-meaning sharing or unattended leftovers. Here's how to keep your furry loved ones safe this Thanksgiving.

Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: Common Thanksgiving Dishes to Avoid

While it's tempting to share a bite from the dinner table, certain ingredients can be very harmful to pets. Keep these common Thanksgiving foods away from dogs and cats:

Turkey skin, bones, and gravy – Fatty turkey skin and rich gravy can cause pancreatitis, while bones can splinter and injure your pet's digestive tract.
Onions, garlic, and chives – These seasonings, often used in stuffing or casseroles, can destroy red blood cells and cause anemia.
Grapes, raisins, and currants – Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure.
Desserts and chocolate – Chocolate and xylitol (found in sugar-free baked goods) are toxic to pets and can cause severe illness.
Raw bread dough – Yeast dough can expand in the stomach, leading to bloating and discomfort.
 Alcohol – Even small sips can cause vomiting, tremors, or dangerously low blood sugar.

Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: Safe Thanksgiving Treat Alternatives

If you want your pets to enjoy a special holiday treat, there are safe, pet-friendly options you can serve instead:

  • Plain, cooked turkey breast (no skin, bones, or seasoning)
  • Steamed green beans or carrots
  • Unsweetened pumpkin purée
  • Plain mashed sweet potato

You can even make homemade treats using pet-safe ingredients!

Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: What to Do in an Emergency

If your pet accidentally eats something toxic, act quickly. Contact Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital immediately at (843) 884-4921 or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Watch for signs of toxicity, which may include:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Weakness or lethargy
  • Excessive drooling
  • Seizures or tremors
  • Loss of appetite or coordination

Prompt veterinary care is essential; some toxins act fast, and early treatment can save your pet's life.

Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: Holiday Hosting Safety Tips

Between guests, decorations, and full plates, it's easy for curious pets to get into trouble. These simple steps can prevent accidents:

  • Keep trash secure – Use a pet-proof lid to prevent scavenging.
  • Ask guests not to feed pets – Provide approved treats instead.
  • Create a calm space – A quiet room with water and bedding helps reduce stress.
  • Avoid hazardous décor – Keep candles, tablecloths, and small decorations out of reach.

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pet safe and stress-free during the holidays. The holidays can bring many hazards for your pets. Stay safe this holiday season by checking out this helpful video: Holiday Hazards

Toxic Food for Dogs and Cats: Your Lowcountry Partner in Pet Safety

At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we're thankful for our community of pet families who trust us to care for their four-legged loved ones year-round. From preventive care to emergency support, we're here to help ensure your pets stay healthy through every season.

If you have questions about toxic food for dogs and cats or need to schedule a check-up before the holidays, call (843) 884-4921 or request an appointment online.

Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital is proud to be part of Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry, a family-owned network of practices including:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital – South Mount Pleasant SC, at Coleman Blvd and Old Village
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic – Central Mount Pleasant SC, at Town Center
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital – North Mount Pleasant SC, at Hwy 41

Together, we're committed to keeping Lowcountry pets safe, healthy, and happy through the holiday season and beyond.