With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, our thoughts are filled with incoming family, friends, and most importantly, food! Soon our bellies will too be full, as we engage in this yearly tradition of eating until we pass out. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce; I’m salivating just writing this! However, in the mix and mess of preparing meals, decorating, and preparing our homes for our beloved guests, we must also remember the furry friends that already inhabit our homes: our cherished pets.
As the tantalizing smells from the kitchen waft through the halls, you’ll likely find both humans and critters making their way to you to see what they can get their paws on. Cats and dogs stick to a regular diet, but it can be okay to slip them a tasty treat here and there. The important thing is to know what they can, and absolutely should NOT, consume (while of course, keeping everything in moderation).
Here are some examples of foods that both cats and dogs should NEVER consume:
· CHOCOLATE · CAFFEINE · CINNAMON
· GARLIC · ONIONS · CHIVES
· RAISINS · GRAPES · FAT TRIMMINGS
· COOKED BONES · RAW DOUGH/YEAST · CANDY
· MACADAMIA NUTS · ALMONDS · PECANS
· WALNUTS · ALCOHOL · XYLITOL
This is a short list, but an important one. While some of these items can be given in small doses, the risk is too high to gamble your pet’s health. Fear not, my furry friends! There are some treats that are not only okay, but can be healthy for your pet. Here are some examples of scraps that Fluffy & Fido can enjoy (in moderation!):
· TURKEY · HAM · CHICKEN
· CARROTS · APPLES · BANANAS
· PUMPKIN · SWEET POTATO · SQUASH
· RASPBERRIES · STRAWBERRIES · BLUEBERRIES
· CANTELOPE · MELON · GREEN BEANS
· QUINOA · CORN · CHEESE
Keep in mind that some pets may have allergies or sensitivities to certain meats, dairy, corn, etc. Always be cautious when feeding anything from the counter or table, and never give a pet anything that is seasoned, or contains bones/seeds. And again, everything in moderation! (Have I said that enough yet?)
Now that you have an idea of what can and cannot be shared, remember to also be alert and aware of your pets’ meanderings! It can be easy to get caught up in the hectic hurry of the holidays, with pies cooling on racks, dishes being plated, and decorations being hung with care. Stay mindful of what they can get into, keeping their safety a priority. This doesn’t just go for food, as sometimes what we consider inedible may be a curious snack for your pet. Garland, cornucopias, fake fruit and many other items can fall victim to the curiosity of a cat (or yes, even a dog!) Consider what may be easy for them to reach, and as always, be sure they have their own distractions in the form of cat trees, toys, and shelves to view their kingdom. Of course, if necessary, keep your pets in a separate room (or crate) if it’s too dangerous for them to roam free. Their safety is always #1!
While you’re getting fat, remember your cat!
When filling your gut, remember your pup!
And be sure to keep those peepers popped for the next blog when we cover Christmas décor safety, fun gifts for your pets and even some nifty DIYs. And if what your pet needs is a friend to keep them company while yours are chowing down, check out our adoption page for some sweet kittens looking for their fur-ever homes <3 Most importantly, don’t forget to give thanks for these sweet creatures in our lives.
