Human Foods That Are Dangerous For Pets
While you may want to share everything at home with your beloved pets, some things can actually cause them harm, such as human foods. Many foods, such as vegetables, fruits and treats like chocolate, can actually be responsible for health issues in pets. At the same time, there are also those that can be comfortably introduced in your pet’s diet, because they boost immunity or improve bone strength. Here are the top foods that you need to avoid giving your pet:
- Almonds
These nuts are toxic to dogs, just like macadamia nuts, because they block the esophagus or can even damage the dog’s windpipe if it fails to chew them well. If the nuts are salted, then the effects are more damaging, as they may cause water retention. - Cinnamon
Pets should never be given cinnamon. This spice can be toxic to pets, as its oils make them sick and irritate the insides of their mouths. Cinnamon can also drastically reduce blood sugar levels, trigger diarrhea and vomiting, and reduce heart rate in dogs and cats. If dogs inhale cinnamon powder, then they may have breathing difficulty, and even choke. - Chocolate
Chocolate, a favorite of many, should not be given to pets. It contains toxic substances called methylxanthines, which can pause their metabolism. While dark chocolate is healthy for people, even a small amount of it can lead to vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. In case your furry companion manages to consume it in any way, you should immediately take it to the vet. - Cheese
A little amount of cheese is alright for pets, provided they are not lactose-intolerant. Since cheese is a high fat source, it is best to avoid feeding it to them altogether . - Garlic
Dogs must never be given garlic because this vegetable, like chives, leeks, and onions, is toxic to canines. It can even damage their red blood cells, thereby causing anemia; other side effects include an increased heart rate, pale gums, and weakness. Onions and chives may trigger gastrointestinal problems too. Cats are more prone to such health issues, but dogs, too, are very much at risk when they eat large amounts of garlic. - Raw meat and eggs
Raw or undercooked meat and eggs are harmful to both humans and pets, as they often contain salmonella, a type of bacteria. Besides, raw eggs have avidin, which reduces biotin absorption, and triggers skin or coat problems. You should also avoid feeding raw bones to your pets, even though this is common for animals staying in the wild. Domesticated pets can end up choking on raw bones or damaging their digestive tract if a bone gets lodged in it. - Salty snacks
If your pet consumes excess salt, then it may lead to frequent urination, accompanied by increased thirst, sometimes even triggering sodium poisoning. As a result, your pet may get diarrhea, tremors, depression, seizures, etc., and the situation can even be life-threatening. So, it is best to avoid giving your pets salty snacks, such as pretzels, chips, or salted popcorn. - Ice cream
This could be your kid’s favorite treat, which they may want to share with their furry companion, but you should know better. Ice creams are refreshing but high in sugar. Moreover, some pets may be lactose-intolerant. Instead, you can freeze fruits, such as (unsweetened) strawberries and raspberries, and offer these as tasty treats to your dog. But remember to always consult a vet before adding new food to your pet’s diet.