4 Holiday Foods That Are Toxic for Pets, According to a Veterinarian

Feeding your pets human food is never a good idea—especially during the holiday season. Popular holiday dishes often include chocolate and large amounts of sugar, along with rich meats like pork and beef that have been heavily seasoned and prepared to appease human taste buds. While many owners or guests may think a bite or two of their favorite holiday dishes is safe for pets, it's not.

To keep your pets safe this holiday season, we spoke with a veterinarian about which holiday foods are toxic for pets. Some are common ingredients found in decadent cakes and baked goods, while others are the centerpiece of the feast. Here, we share which holiday foods are toxic for pets and what to do if your furry family member accidentally ingests one.

Holiday Foods That Are Toxic for Pets

If you're hosting during the holidays, there are several toxic foods in particular to keep away from your pets:

1. Chocolate
2. Xylitol-sweetened desserts
3. Grapes and raisins
4. Rich, fatty foods

Chocolate, xylitol-sweetened desserts (a low-calorie and sugar-free sweetener found in baked goods, gelatin products, jams, and other desserts), grapes, and raisins can lead to immediate, life-threatening illnesses for pets, warns Whittenburg. If you plan to serve dishes that include these ingredients, think carefully about where you place them so they remain far out of reach.

In addition to these sweets, rich and fatty foods—such as ham drippings—are a major concern because many people mistakenly believe they are safe for pets to consume. Eating these foods often leads to pancreatitis, which can be fatal, says Whittenburg. "I see pets every year right after the holidays who have either accidentally been allowed access to or have been fed these problematic foods," she says.

For a full list of toxic foods for pets, visit the ASPCA.

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What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Item

If your pet consumes any of these toxic holiday foods, call your veterinarian or an emergency pet clinic immediately. When it comes to pets ingesting toxic foods, time is of the essence, says Whittenburg. "The pet should not be fed anything or given medications at home unless directed by a veterinarian," she says.

Pets often eat food that falls on the floor, or guests may feed them without your knowledge. During the holidays, keep a close eye on your pet to ensure they don't eat any harmful foods. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, tremors, rapid heart rate, or sudden lethargy. According to Whittenburg, these are all signs your pet may have consumed something toxic from your feast display.

When dogs, in particular, eat rich or fatty foods, they may appear hunched with a painful abdomen—an early sign of pancreatitis, says Whittenburg. This pain may also be accompanied by vomiting.

Safe Holiday Treats for Pets

While pets don't understand that holidays are special, it can still be fun to include them in the food festivities. For those who can't resist giving their pet a small holiday treat, Whittenburg says plain, cooked turkey without skin or bones and small portions of unseasoned, steamed vegetables are the safest options.

Many pet food stores also offer seasonal treats, so consider stocking up before the holidays to ensure anything you give them is safe and won't upset their stomach.