When your cat or dog is ill after eating something that doesn’t agree with them, both you and your furry friend experience intense stress—and bringing a stressed pet to the veterinarian is no easy task. Fortunately, knowing which foods harm your pet can spare you emergency trips to the animal hospital. Here, the experts of Maika'i Veterinary Clinic in Hilo, HI, pinpoint five foods that are toxic to pets.

Cats and dogs most frequently require assistance due to possible food poisoning, making up 95 to 98% of all cases reported worldwide. The following foods may be part of your diet, but they should be kept away from your pet.

1. Dairy Products

Cats and dogs do not possess sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down the lactose in cow’s milk. This means dairy products can wreak havoc on their stomachs. Lactose consumption most commonly leads to digestive issues like diarrhea. 

2. The Three Cs

Chocolate, coffee, and caffeinated beverages: These are great treats for humans, but not for pets. They all contain methylxanthines, a substance found in cacao, coffee beans, tea leaves, and many soft drinks. When ingested by animals, it can cause symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death.

3. Nuts

Several nuts are  known to cause toxic reactions in pets. Macadamia nuts lead to depression, vomiting, tremors, and hypothermia in dogs. Popular snacking and cooking nuts like almonds and pecans can cause vomiting and diarrhea in both cats and dogs. Salted nuts can make pets sick by dangerously elevating their sodium levels.

4. Raw Meat & Eggs

Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from bacteria like salmonella and E. coli found in raw meat and eggs. Raw meat bones can also be dangerous. Additionally, they may splinter and pose a choking hazard. Give your dog a rawhide chew instead!

5. Alcoholic Beverages

In addition to depressing the central nervous system, alcohol can cause vomiting and diarrhea. If too much is consumed, it can lead to coma or death. The same goes for alcoholic food products; liquor-filled chocolates and rum-soaked cakes are not safe for your furry family members.

For your pet’s safety, store harmful foods out of their reach—and keep an eye on the dinner table when food is out. In case of emergencies, program (888) 426-4435 into your cellphone so you can reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. 

For non-urgent care from a local veterinarian in Hilo, HI, trust Maika'i Veterinary Clinic. Visit their website or call (808) 959-2273 for an appointment.