What You Need to Know This Holiday Season
The holidays are all about gathering, celebrating, and enjoying delicious meals — and it’s tempting to share that joy by slipping a little something under the table to your four-legged family members. But before you offer your pet a taste of Thanksgiving dinner, it’s important to know that many holiday foods can be harmful, even in small amounts.
Dr. Bev Unger, DVM at VCA in Flower Mound, reminds pet owners:
“Make this a Happy Thanksgiving for your four-legged friends. Although it may feel like an act of kindness when you feed your pet leftovers from Thanksgiving, it can turn into a trip to the ER or at the very least, it may lead to vomiting or diarrhea. It is best to refrain. If you just can’t resist, only a little turkey with no skin.”
Why Holiday Leftovers Can Be Dangerous
Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes contain ingredients that are toxic or difficult for pets to digest. Rich, fatty, or seasoned foods can upset their stomachs or lead to more serious health issues. Even foods that seem harmless may hide ingredients that pose a risk.
Holiday Foods That Are Unsafe for Pets
To keep your pets safe, avoid giving them any of the following common Thanksgiving items:
-
Onions – Can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage.
-
Garlic – More potent than onions and highly toxic to pets.
-
Bones (turkey or chicken) – Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause choking or internal injury.
-
Pork products (ham, bacon, etc.) – High-fat meats that often lead to pancreatitis.
-
Stuffing – Usually contains onion, garlic, butter, and seasonings unsafe for pets.
-
Gravy – Rich, salty, and full of fats that can upset digestion.
-
Pecans, cashews, and most nuts – Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even neurological issues.
-
Grapes and raisins – Extremely toxic, potentially causing kidney failure.
What Can Pets Eat Safely?
If you truly can’t resist sharing a small holiday treat with your pet, stick to Dr. Unger’s recommendation:
✔ A small piece of plain turkey — no skin, no seasoning, and no fat.
Keep the portion tiny and make it a one-time treat.
The Bottom Line
Your pet doesn’t need a plate of leftovers to feel included in the holiday fun. In fact, the best way to show your love is by keeping them safe and healthy. Save the stuffing and gravy for your human guests, and opt for a safe, vet-approved treat instead.
A few precautions now can help ensure everyone — including your pets — enjoys a happy and healthy holiday season.
