What Thanksgiving food can cats and dogs eat? What to know about giving your pet turkey and more common dishes
While you may wish to have your own pet Attend family thanksgiving feastgetting dogs and cats to eat human food can be challenging. So, are holiday treats like turkey safe for you? cat or dog eat?
Experts explain what you need to know before sharing meals with your feline and canine companions.
Can dogs and cats eat turkey?
It is generally safe for pets to eat skinless and boneless turkey meat.
“It’s a great source of protein that supports muscle health and weight loss. Just be sure to avoid extra
Stuffing, Seasoning, Skin and Bones,” Dr. Danielle Bernal, a global veterinarian, Healthy Pet Companytold CBS News.
Veterinarian Dr. Ruth McPitt tells us that greasy foods like turkey skin, turkey juices, and gravy can cause a lot of problems for your pet. CBS News Los Angeles Before the holidays last year.
“Our pets are not used to eating what we eat, and all fatty foods can cause gastrointestinal issues, or worse, your pet could end up in the emergency room with life-threatening pancreatitis. So you really want to avoid feeding them rich, high-fat foods,” she said.
Can dogs and cats eat cranberry sauce?
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, and are also safe.
“Just like in humans, cranberries can support urinary tract health and help prevent urinary tract infections and bacterial growth in pets,” says Bernal.
Can dogs and cats eat mung beans?
Common green beans, peas, and some other seasonal vegetables are also generally safe.
Butternut squash, for example, can support the immune system and hydrate, Bernal says, “as long as they’re not baked in any oil.”
Can dogs and cats eat sweet potatoes?
Steamed sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, B6, C and calcium, and their fiber can support your dog’s digestion. They are also safe for cats in moderate amounts.
“Just remember, don’t give your pet sweet potatoes the added ingredients humans crave on Thanksgiving, such as butter, brown sugar, marshmallows or maple syrup,” says Bernal.
Can dogs and cats eat mashed potatoes?
Pets can eat mashed potatoes, but not mashed potatoes with butter and cream like you would serve for your human guests.
“Any dish that’s simple and unseasoned is a good choice,” Bernal says.
Common Thanksgiving Foods Cats and Dogs Can Eat
There are also some Thanksgiving treats for our furry family members to partake in, including:
- Canned 100% Pumpkin Puree
“Pumpkin is known to promote healthy digestion, which helps boost your pet’s overall energy and vitality,” says Bernal.
- unsweetened applesauce
- plain yogurt
- raw fruit
- raw vegetables
“Raw carrots are a great low-calorie snack that may prevent cataracts and heart disease. Apples provide excellent nutrition.
A source of pectin, which supports the digestive system,” she says.
Common Thanksgiving foods not safe to feed cats or dogs
In many cases, what is good for humans is not a good choice for our pets.
Bernal says to avoid feeding our four-legged friends grapes, raisins, onions and garlic. More unsafe foods include:
- alcoholic beverages
- Sweets (such as pies and cookies)
- chocolate and candy
- Uncooked yeast dough
- fatty foods
- Prepared foods (e.g. casseroles, buttered peas, etc.)
- Ham
- filling
McPitt also recommends telling your guests not to share the food on their plates.
“I know it’s tempting and it’s the season of giving, but the problem is, sharing food with your pet can cause many different health issues for the animal,” she said.
