10+ Most Dangerous Foods that Dogs & Cats Should Avoid Eating

Our furry friends bring so much joy into our lives, so it's important to keep them safe and healthy. While there are many nutritious foods for dogs and cats, some human foods can be very harmful if pets ingest them. Here are 10 of the most dangerous foods to avoid feeding dogs and cats.

1. Chocolate - Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to pets. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures.
2. Xylitol - This common sugar substitute found in gum, breath mints, baked goods, and some peanut butters can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs. Cats are also susceptible.
3. Grapes & Raisins - Grapes and raisins (even seedless) can cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact cause is unknown but even a small amount can be toxic.
4. Onions & Garlic - These veggies contain compounds that can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs and cats if ingested in large amounts.
5. Alcohol - Alcohol intoxication can occur in pets, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, trouble breathing, tremors, and abnormal acidity.
6. Caffeine - Coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks contain caffeine which pets are more sensitive to than humans. It can lead to restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and seizures.
7. Nutmeg - The spice contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors and seizures in dogs and cats.
8. Milk & Dairy - While small amounts of yogurt or cheese are okay for some pets, milk and dairy-based products can cause diarrhea since pets often lack sufficient lactase enzymes to digest them.
9. Mushrooms: Some mushrooms can be toxic to pets and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage.
10. Macadamia Nuts - These nuts contain an unknown toxin that can result in weakness, lack of coordination, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia in dogs.

Being aware of these common human foods that are dangerous for dogs and cats can help prevent accidental pet poisoning. If you suspect your furry friend has ingested anything toxic, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. With quick treatment, many pet poisonings can have good outcomes.

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