Human foods that are dangerous for dogs and cats

This guide was AI-drafted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and reviewed before publishing.

Why our food can be a problem for pets

Dogs and cats process food very differently to humans, and some ingredients that are perfectly safe for us can cause real harm to them. This is not always obvious - a small piece of something that seems harmless can occasionally trigger a serious reaction. Being aware of the main culprits is one of the simplest ways to keep your pet safe at home. If you ever think your pet has eaten something they should not have, contact your vet straight away rather than waiting to see how they get on.

Foods to keep away from dogs

Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas are well known to be toxic to dogs, and even a small amount can cause kidney damage in some individuals - though exactly why this happens is not yet fully understood. Onions, garlic, leeks and chives - whether raw, cooked or powdered - can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anaemia over time. Chocolate, coffee and anything containing caffeine are also dangerous, as dogs cannot break down the compounds found in these foods the way we can. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener used in some chewing gums, sweets, peanut butters and baked goods, is particularly hazardous and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar. Alcohol, macadamia nuts, and raw or undercooked dough are other foods best kept well out of reach.

Foods to keep away from cats

Cats share some of the same food sensitivities as dogs. Onions, garlic and related plants are harmful to cats too, and can cause damage to their red blood cells even in small quantities. Grapes and raisins should also be avoided, as they have been linked to kidney problems. Because cats are obligate carnivores with a very specific metabolism, they are also sensitive to certain compounds in ways that dogs are not - for example, some artificial sweeteners and certain plant-based foods can be harder for them to process. Raw fish fed regularly can deplete an important vitamin, and bones from cooked fish or poultry can splinter and cause injury. Alcohol is toxic to cats even in tiny amounts.

Foods that are risky for both dogs and cats

Caffeine in any form - tea, coffee, energy drinks, some medicines - is best kept away from both species. Very salty foods can upset the balance of fluids and minerals in a pet's body, and very fatty or rich foods can trigger digestive upset or, in more serious cases, pancreatitis. Cooked bones of any kind can splinter and cause choking or internal injury, so it is safer to avoid them altogether. Mouldy or spoiled food should never be given to pets, as the moulds that develop on old food can produce substances that are harmful to animals.

Signs that something may be wrong

If your pet has eaten something potentially harmful, you may notice vomiting, diarrhoea, unusual tiredness, wobbliness, trembling, drooling, pale gums, or a loss of appetite. Some reactions can appear quickly, while others may develop over several hours or even days. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen - if you have any reason to think your pet has eaten something toxic, call your vet or an emergency vet clinic as soon as possible. Try to let them know what was eaten and roughly how much, as this will help them advise you quickly.

Keeping your pet safe day to day

A few simple habits can make a big difference. Keep food out of reach on counters and in cupboards, and remind guests and children not to share snacks with your pet. Be especially careful during celebrations when unusual foods, chocolates and alcohol are more likely to be around. If you enjoy giving your pet a treat, stick to foods specifically made for them or ask your vet which plain, pet-safe options are suitable. When in doubt, it is always better to leave something out of their bowl than to risk it.