Many pet owners have become wise to the potential fillers, preservatives and generally unhealthy ingredients in some of the commercially produced pet foods. They may turn to natural or home-cooked foods to nourish their pet instead, thinking they’re benefitting their cat or dog. But not all foods that people eat are safe for pets; some can be quite toxic. Alcoholic Beverages: In addition to becoming intoxicated, alcohol can cause coma and death in some pets. Apple Seeds: These and other fruit seeds/pits can cause various reactions, including trouble breathing. Plus, hard, small pits may be a choking hazard. Caffeine: Coffee, tea and grounds which have caffeine should not be consumed by pets because they can affect the nervous system. Chocolate: Many people have heard that chocolate is a no-no for dogs and cats. That’s because it contains theobromine, which can cause gastrointestinal problems in moderate cases, or coma and death in severe instances. Milk chocolate contains less theobromine than semi-sweet or bakers’ varieties, but all cocoacontaining products should be avoided. Garlic and Onions: Both of these popular seasonings are toxic to pets at high doses, onions more so than garlic. They can do damage in both powder and fresh forms. Both contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia. Baby foods and some pet gravy products contain these seasonings, and they’re best avoided to be safe. Grapes and Raisins: Even relatively small amounts of these fruits can cause kidney problems in dogs and cats and lead to upset stomachs. Macadamia Nuts: These can cause vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, stiff joints, lameness and tremors. Salt: In high quantities salt can cause electrolyte imbalances. Tomato Stems and Leaves: The digestive, urinary and nervous systems may be affected by these. Keep dogs and cats away from backyard vegetable gardens where tomatoes are growing.
