LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thanksgiving is just around the corner. As always, there is a lot of delicious food to be had and enjoyed with those you hold closest — including your furry friends.
Now, your pets should get to enjoy the holiday too but they will need to do so safely. In some cases, mixing your human food with in their animal digestive system might mean a less than merry holiday for you both.
Firstly, it's always best to avoid giving your pet human food altogether. However if you want to share there are some foods that are more harmful than others.
If you must share, it's important to minimize risk of exposing your pet to toxic food items. Please remind your guests to not feed your pet without your permission or keep you pet away from the guest area entirely.
Elk Creek Animal Hospital says many Thanksgiving staples can be harmful to pets.
"Foods high in fat can lead to digestive issues, while others may be toxic, resulting in serious health risks like tummy discomfort, anemia, or even kidney failure," their website reads.
Here is what your pet can and can't eat on Thanksgiving:
CATS CAN HAVE:
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Cooked Carrots
- Cooked Green Beans
- Corn
- Pumpkin
- Rice
- Small amounts of celery
- Sweet potato
- Squash
- Turkey/Chicken with bones or skin (Unseasoned)
CATS CAN'T HAVE:
- Canned Cranberry
- Cheese
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Grapes
- Ham
- Onions
- Pie Filling
- Raisins
- Raw Meat
- Raw Potatoes
- Stuffing
DOGS CAN HAVE:
- Apples without seeds or core
- Carrots
- celery
- corn without the cob
- Green beans
- Pumpkin
- Quinoa
- Rice
- Small amounts of cheese
- Sweet Potatoes
- Turkey with no bones or fat (unseasoned)
DOGS CAN'T HAVE:
- Canned Cranberry
- Chocolate
- Garlic
- Grapes
- Ham
- Onions
- Pie Filling
- Raisins
- Mashed Potatoes
- Stuffing
If your pet does end up eating something they shouldn't you can give them a call at 502-966-4104. They are open 24 hours.
It's also important to ensure all food waste is properly disposed of and in a closed container so your pet can't find a way to get to foods that could wreak havoc on their stomach.
If you're traveling with your pet, always use a secure harness or carrier.
Remember: never leave your pet alone in the car, regardless of the weather.
The Kentucky Paws Animal Hospital says as tempting as it is to share your food with your bestie "Stick to pet-safe treats and keep them safe while you enjoy the meal."
