It’s common for pet lovers to feel the need to share everything with their pets. We share our space, our time, and sometimes even our beds. So it appears only ideal to share our food as well. While sharing is caring and also considered to be a great tool for bonding, it isn’t always the best idea when it comes to food. Some foods are considered good for people but can be toxic and potentially deadly for cats and dogs.
The list below highlights a few of the most common foods that can be toxic to pets:
1. Chocolate
Most people know that chocolate is toxic for pets to eat. The problem with consuming it is theobromine. The darker it is, the more damage it can cause to your pet. It can also cause heart problems, tremors, seizures, and death. The symptoms of pet toxicity level your animal will experience is determined by the amount they consume. Always seek advice from your veterinarian before feeding your animal any milk-based products because they can create significant gastrointestinal issues.
2. Caffeine
Methylxanthines is a substance found in coffee and caffeine, which can be very dangerous to a pet’s health. If consumed your pet can experience symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination, seizures, and even death. Any caffeinated drinks such as colas or energy drinks can be fatal, so keep it away from your pets.
3. Onions and garlic
Keep raw or cooked onions and garlic powdered away from your pets. They contain compounds that can cause gastroenteritis, anemia which can lead to serious damage to the red blood cells. If you’re worried your animal has consumed onions or garlic look for signs like diarrhea, choking, and excessive tiredness. Signs of onion or garlic poisoning won’t appear until several days after ingestion but includes a decrease in energy, and darkened urine.
4. Raw eggs and raw meat and bones
Even though it seems natural to give a dog a bone, Raw bones can hazardous for animals. In addition to bones being harmful, raw meat and eggs can cause pancreatitis which can also be toxic for animals. Raw eggs, raw meat, and fish can have bacteria that causes food poisoning called “fish disease”. If your pet has consumed raw meat or bones, the first signs you should look for are Lymph nodes, fever, and diarrhea.
5. Grapes and raisins
If your pet has consumed grapes or raisins, immediately take them to the emergency clinic. It has been said by experts that grapes and raisins contain a toxic substance which can cause kidney failure when consumed by animals. Vomiting and diarrhea are the first symptoms your pet will experience. If left untreated these symptoms may lead to dehydration. Kidney disease or even death can also occur if proper measures aren’t taken after ingestion.
To be on the safe side, It is best to not feed your pet human food. Try sticking to a regimen of food formulated to fulfill your pet dog’s dietary needs. If you discover or believe that your pet has eaten one of these foods, take it to your veterinarian promptly. Some food might only trigger pain, while others can be dangerous for its health. If you’re uncertain, be sure to ask your veterinarian for guidance.
