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

In a previous blogspot, we cautioned against feeding garlic to pets due to concerns about its potential toxicity. However, upon further research we have revisited our stance on garlic and discovered that our previous advice may have been misguided.

Contrary to popular belief, garlic is not harmful to our furry companions when given in moderation. In fact, it can offer several health benefits for dogs and cats. While it's true that garlic contains compounds that, in large quantities, may damage red blood cells and lead to anemia, the risk associated with moderate consumption is minimal.

When administered correctly, garlic can serve as a natural repellent for fleas and ticks, support cardiovascular health, and even help boost the immune system. Many pet owners have reported positive outcomes from incorporating garlic into their pets' diets under the guidance of a veterinarian. Research also shows that the amount of garlic needed to hit toxic levels is actually a very large amount.

Now, let's take a look at some other human foods that can be harmful to dogs and cats:

1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to pets. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures.
   
   
2. Xylitol: 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: Can cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact cause is unknown, but even a small amount can be toxic.
   
   
4. Onions: Onions harbor a compound known as N-propyl disulfide, which poses a significant toxicity risk to dogs. This substance has the potential to induce the disintegration and eventual obliteration of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. In severe instances, onion poisoning can prove fatal for canine companions.
   
   
5. Alcohol: Can lead to alcohol intoxication in pets, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, trouble breathing, tremors, and abnormal acidity.
   
   
6. Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks. Pets are more sensitive to caffeine than humans and can experience restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and seizures.
   
   
7. Nutmeg: 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. Goats milk is typically preferred due to its lower Lactose levels.
   
   
9. Mushrooms: Some mushrooms can be toxic to pets and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage. Other mushrooms like Turkey tail actually help fight cancer and increase life expectancy in dogs with certain cancers but almost a year.
   
   
10. Macadamia 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.

Citations:

[1]  https://ivcjournal.com/garlic/

[2] https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets