Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Dogs and Cats

Friends and Neighbors,

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year! We always make sure that our pets love the holiday for the right reasons. Use our This not That guide to make sure your pets are happy and healthy this Thanksgiving.

THIS: Extra pets and tummy rubs, Extra cuddles, Extra walks

NOT THAT: Using food as the only way to show love. Our pets love treats, but they love us even more. Giving your time and attention is the best treat for cats and dogs!

THIS: Visiting with friends and family 

NOT THAT: Going beyond their social comfort. Every pet has their social limit. Respect your pet’s boundaries by letting them settle down in their kennel or favorite comfy space before they reach their limit. If you’re planning on having guests, often try Adaptil pheromone or other anti-anxiety medications if necessary. Please contact us if you feel your pet needs some extra help around the holidays or with travel. 

And of course, it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without a few extra safe and yummy treats.

A few small bites of lean white turkey meat without the skin is alright.

THIS: A few small bites of lean white meat from the turkey.

NOT THAT: Fatty trimmings that could cause pancreatitis or GI upset. 

THIS: Sweet potato before the sugar and seasonings get added. Sweet potato is high in fiber and a favorite treat. Pets love it roasted, smashed, or dehydrated. 

NOT THAT: Grapes that can cause kidney toxicity. Unfortunately, grape toxicity is not dose dependent. Meaning even 1 grape or raisin can be very harmful to some dogs. 

Do not feed your pets onions or garlic.

THIS: Carrot, celery, or apple peice that may fall as you chop up ingredients for the stuffing. These are nice little low calorie crunchy treats. 

NOT THAT: Onions and garlic. These ingredients are delicious for us humans but can cause serious anemia or GI upset in dogs.

We hope you all enjoy a fantastic holiday while keeping pets and humans safe!

Please contact the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline for any potential ingestion emergencies this holiday.