The holidays bring plenty of festive foods, but many seasonal favorites can be unsafe for pets. Instead of sharing table scraps, keep your furry companions healthy with pet-safe treat options and simple holiday safety tips.
Holiday Foods to Avoid
Many traditional holiday dishes contain ingredients that can be harmful, even in small amounts, so it’s important to know what to keep off your pet’s plate.
- Turkey skin and cooked bones
- Stuffing, gravy, and dishes with onions or garlic
- Chocolate, baked goods, and sugar-free candies (xylitol)
- Grapes, raisins, and cranberry mixes
- Yeast dough and heavily seasoned foods
- Nutmeg and holiday spices
Healthy Treat Tips
Smart snacking habits can help prevent upset stomachs and keep pets feeling their best throughout the holidays.
- Keep treats to less than 10 percent of daily calories
- Avoid introducing new foods during busy gatherings
- Start with small portions to watch for sensitivities
- Maintain normal feeding routines to reduce begging
- Store pet treats separately to avoid mix-ups
Holiday Hosting Tips for Pet Safety
With guests, food, and holiday chaos, a few simple precautions can help keep your pets safe and stress-free.
- Use secure trash cans to keep pets out of scraps
- Remind guests not to feed pets from their plates
- Provide a quiet, food-free space for pets
- Keep counters and tables clear of unattended dishes
- Have pet-safe treats ready so they don’t feel left out
Signs Your Pet May Need a Vet
Know the early warning signs of trouble so you can act quickly if your pet gets into something they shouldn’t.
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Sudden lethargy or restlessness
- Pale gums or excessive thirst
- Unusual behavior or difficulty standing
- Any known ingestion of toxic foods
Safe Holiday Treat Alternatives
If you plan to share a little human food with your pet this season, remember that moderation is key and stick to simple, pet-safe options.
- Small pieces of plain, cooked turkey (boneless and unseasoned)
- Pet-safe veggies like carrots, green beans, pumpkin, and sweet potato
- Frozen treats made with plain yogurt and pumpkin or xylitol-free peanut butter
- Holiday-themed treats made specifically for pets
- Simple homemade pet biscuits with safe ingredients
For an extra-special homemade treat, try this easy recipe straight from the CityVet recipe book:
Party Mix for Pups
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken (chopped)
- ½ cup cooked sweet potatoes (diced)
- ½ cup cooked green beans (chopped)
Instructions:
- Combine the chopped chicken, sweet potatoes, and green beans in a bowl.
- Serve small portions as a festive, pet-safe holiday party treat.
Keep your holidays safe and joyful by choosing smart, pet-friendly treat options. If your pet eats something they shouldn’t, or you want to make sure they’re healthy heading into the new year, call or visit us at CityVet to book your appointment.