The holiday season is often considered a time for indulgence, especially when it comes to family dinners and parties with friends. However, while you might be pampering your taste buds, it can be dangerous to let your pets join in on seasonal snacking. If you want to avoid having to call an emergency vet this winter, here are five popular holiday treats to keep away from cats and dogs.

5 Holiday Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets

1. Poultry Bones

Small amounts of plain, cooked chicken or turkey are safe for cats and dogs. However, it’s not a good idea to give your pet these poultry dishes from the table. These foods contain a variety of small bones that can present a choking hazard and, if swallowed, may lacerate internal tissues.

2. Desserts

In addition to sugar, many holiday desserts contain ingredients that are harmful to animals. Chocolate, for instance, contains toxins that can result in gastrointestinal distress, rapid heart rate, agitation, and other symptoms. Raisins and currants, commonly found in fruitcakes, can also trigger kidney failure in dogs.

3. Ham

Ham may seem like an appropriate source of protein, but it’s not safe for cats and dogs. Many holiday hams contain high amounts of sodium, which may lead to vomiting, seizures, and kidney damage. The high amounts of fat found in the meat can also be difficult to digest, which in turn, increases the risk for pancreatitis, a form of pancreas inflammation that requires care from an emergency vet.

4. Assorted Nuts

While some nuts are technically safe for cats and dogs, it’s best to keep them out of your pet’s reach altogether. Most commercial nut products, such as walnuts, are high in fat and sodium, which can contribute to health problems, including kidney damage and pancreatitis. Macadamia nuts are also highly toxic to animals.  

5. Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes on their own are not dangerous to animals. However, most mashed potatoes that are prepared for holiday meals contain ingredients, such as butter, salt, garlic, onions, and scallions, that can cause everything from stomach issues to organ damage. Many of these items are also present in other seasonal dishes, including casseroles and stuffing.

When it comes to holiday celebrations, stick to feeding your pet their regular diet and special treats approved by your veterinary clinic. If your dog or cat does consume something potentially toxic, Clermont Animal Hospital is here to help. Offering emergency vet services in Batavia, OH, these caring professionals can provide responsive care for many problems—including unexpected digestive distress, poisoning, and organ failure. To learn more about their services, visit this animal clinic online. For responsive support and appointment scheduling, call (513) 732-1730.