Harmful vs Healthy Foods For Pets

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March is National Pet Nutrition Month. As a pet owner, providing the best nutrition for your dog, cat, or other animal is one of the most important things you can do.

Many people give their leftover food scraps to their pets, while others are home cooking their pets entire meals. Though we mean no harm, the reality is some human foods aren’t good for cats or dogs to eat. Some foods can even be toxic to animals. Before giving any food to your pet you should have a solid foundation on your pet’s dietary needs and which foods are safe and more importantly, unsafe, for your pet to eat.

Healthy Foods for Pets

Most healthy foods that are good for humans are relatively good for pets. However, it is important to do your research before giving anything to your pet. What started out as something healthy can instantly become toxic with the addition of certain oils, seasonings, or other ingredients.

Fruit Options

Apples

Bananas

Cantaloupe

Strawberries

Blueberries

Watermelon

Honeydew melon

Vegetable Options

Carrots

Green beans

Sweet Potato

Spinach

Sweet red peppers

Pumpkin

Broccoli

Tomatoes

Green peas

Zucchini

Celery Stalks

Cucumber

Asparagus

Low Fat Meat Options

Cooked ground turkey

Baked chicken breast

Salmon

Harmful Foods for Pets

Many human foods are very high in calories or salt, which your pet may not be able to tolerate. Other foods are simply utilized differently and can be toxic to pets.

Toxic Foods for Pets

Macadamia nuts

Garlic

Avacado

Onions/Chives and Onion Powder

Grapes

Raisins

Chocolate

Coffee

Alcohol

Fruit Pits

Rhubarb

Wild Mushrooms

Xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in most sugar-free gum and other products)

High Salt Foods to Avoid 

Deli Meats

Cheeses

Most bread products

Potato chips

Fast food

Any new food should be gradually introduced into your pet’s diet to avoid upsetting their stomach. As always, check with your veterinarian to know which specific foods are okay for your pet, especially if they have any medical conditions.

   

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