Toxic Human Foods for Cats and Dogs

For many people, their pets are their babies and their best friends. As such, it’s understandable that many people want to treat their pets to some human food after only giving them vet-approved pet food. However, it’s important to exercise caution; while most human foods are safe in moderation, some can increase the risk of pet toxicity or lead to digestive upset and diseases, such as feline diabetes, kidney failure, and arthritis. The following human foods should never be shared with cats or dogs:

1. Raw eggs and raw meat and bones

Just as in humans, eating raw eggs or uncooked meat can lead to an infection caused by salmonella or E. coli in cats and dogs. There are many different symptoms associated with these illnesses, but some include puking, diarrhea, and fatigue. Raw eggs also contain an enzyme that can cause skin and coat issues. You should additionally prevent your pet from eating raw bones, as they could suffocate, hurt their digestive tract, or chip their teeth.

2. Onions and garlic

Onions and garlic can induce red blood cell destruction and anemia in cats and dogs. These items are harmful both when consumed in high quantities and in concentrated forms, such as onion soup mix and garlic powder. Urgent veterinary care is required for cats or dogs exhibiting symptoms such as reduced appetite, pale gums, and dark red urine.

3. Chocolate

We have all heard that chocolate is potentially lethal for dogs, but did you know it’s also deadly for cats? Chocolate contains chemicals known as methylxanthines, which have been linked to various adverse health effects in dogs and cats, including, but not limited to, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased body temperature, stiff muscles, irregular heartbeats, abdominal pain, increased thirst, and chocolate-induced convulsions.

4. Caffeine

Methylxanthines are also present in beverages that contain caffeine, such as coffee, soda, and energy drinks. For that reason, you can expect your cat or dog to exhibit symptoms such as increased temperature, muscle tremors, abdominal discomfort, and other health problems if they consume a caffeinated beverage. If your pet experiences any of these signs and symptoms, take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

5. Grapes and raisins

Raisins and grapes can make your cat or dog sick, and, in severe cases, they can speed up the process of renal failure. Even a small number of grapes or raisins can make a cat or dog sick, and, unfortunately, it is unknown why this is the case. Early symptoms can include excessive vomiting as well as hyperactivity. Lethargy, decreased appetite, abdominal discomfort, decreased urination, and diarrhea are some of the additional symptoms that may appear within the first twenty-four hours. Even though some cats are immune to the effects of grapes, it is still advisable to avoid giving them to your cat and to keep all grapes and raisins far away from where your pets can reach.

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