Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, love, and feasting, but for pet owners, it’s also a time to be cautious. While 1 in 3 pet parents admit to slipping their furry friend a treat from the table, that well-meaning gesture could lead to a trip to the vet. To keep your celebration joyful for everyone, here are five Thanksgiving foods to avoid sharing with pets:
- Turkey BonesTurkey meat is fine in small, plain portions, but cooked bones can splinter, causing severe injuries. Skip the bones; stick to the meat.
- StuffingWith toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs, stuffing is a no-go for pets. These can damage their red blood cells and cause illness.
- CasserolesRich in butter, cream, and spices, casseroles and mashed potatoes can upset your pet’s stomach—best to steer clear.
- Cranberry SauceWhile cranberries are safe, sugary or raisin-filled sauces can be harmful, even leading to kidney damage.
- DessertsChocolate, xylitol, and other dessert ingredients are toxic to pets. Keep all sweets out of reach.
Instead, treat your pets to plain pumpkin puree, cooked turkey, or pet-safe snacks. This Thanksgiving, celebrate safely with your entire family—pets included!