Toxic Food for Pets
Many everyday foods we enjoy can be dangerous or even fatal to our furry companions. While it's tempting to share a bite of your lunch with your pet, certain ingredients can cause serious health problems. At All Friends Veterinary Hospital in East Islip, NY, we provide various treatments to relieve any discomfort your pet is experiencing and help it recover safely. Before you visit us, learn which foods can be toxic for your cat or dog below:
Foods That Can Be Harmful to Your Pet
There are some foods that we have in our homes that can be detrimental to our pets. Some of these foods include:
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death in pets. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for your furry friend.
- Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. Xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures and liver failure.
- Grapes and Raisins: The exact toxin in grapes and raisins that is harmful to pets is unknown, but ingestion can lead to kidney failure.
- Onions and Garlic: These vegetables contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in your cat or dog, leading to weakness, lethargy, and pale gums.
- Cooked Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, intestinal damage, and internal bleeding.
- Fatty Foods: Fatty foods like fried meats and butter can cause pancreatitis and lead to significant pain.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, it is important to seek help right away. The sooner your pet receives veterinary care, the better the chance of a full recovery. Call our veterinarian or our emergency vet clinic immediately. Do not try to induce vomiting at home unless specifically instructed by our vet.
How to Prevent Pet Poisoning
The best way to protect your pet from toxic foods is to be aware of they affect him or her and keeping them out of reach. Store all potentially harmful foods securely and be mindful of what you drop on the floor. If you are unsure whether a food is safe for your cat or dog, always err on the side of caution and consult with our veterinarian.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today!
For a comprehensive list of toxic foods for pets or to schedule your visit, contact All Friends Veterinary Hospital in East Islip, NY, at (631) 277-8700. We are happy to provide you with more information and set you up with an appointment. Our experienced staff is dedicating to keeping your pet happy and healthy!