Thanksgiving Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets

The kitchen smells amazing. The table’s set. The turkey’s roasting.

And your pets? They’re watching your every move, convinced the feast is for them too.

It’s tempting to share a little “taste of Thanksgiving,” but many holiday foods can actually be dangerous or toxic for pets. Even in small amounts. Knowing what’s safe (and what’s not) keeps tails wagging long after the leftovers are gone.

“A full plate doesn’t mean a shared feast. Sometimes love looks like saying no to those puppy-dog eyes.”

Here’s your guide to the top Thanksgiving foods to keep off your pet’s plate.

1. Turkey Skin and Fatty Meats

Turkey itself can be fine if plain and cooked, but the fatty skin, buttery drippings, and seasonings are a recipe for stomach upset and pancreatitis. Keep it safe: Offer your dog or cat a few small bites of unseasoned, skinless turkey breast instead.

2. Stuffing and Gravy

Stuffing is often full of onions, garlic, butter, and herbs; all of which can cause digestive distress or toxicity. Gravy adds even more salt and fat. Keep it safe: Skip both and stick with your pet’s usual food (or a spoonful of plain pumpkin for a treat).

3. Onions, Garlic, and Chives

Even a small amount of these can damage your pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. These ingredients often hide in casseroles, soups, or sides, so it’s best to keep all table food off-limits.

4. Bones

Turkey and ham bones can splinter easily and cause choking or internal injury. Keep it safe: Give your pet a sturdy chew toy or dental treat instead.

5. Mashed Potatoes and Casseroles

While potatoes themselves aren’t harmful, the butter, milk, cheese, and seasonings used in holiday dishes can cause GI upset. Especially for pets sensitive to dairy. Keep it safe: Offer a few bites of plain, boiled sweet potato (no butter, no sugar).

6. Desserts and Chocolate

Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free sweets), raisins, and certain nuts are all toxic to pets. Even small amounts can lead to serious complications. Keep it safe: Treat your pets with their own store-bought goodies or homemade pet-safe snacks.

7. Alcohol and Caffeine

That sip of beer or leftover coffee might seem harmless, but even tiny doses can affect your pet’s heart, nervous system, and coordination. Always keep cups, bottles, and mugs out of reach.

8. Dough and Yeast

Unbaked bread dough can rise inside your pet’s stomach and cause bloating, discomfort, or worse. It’s one of those hidden dangers that catches pet parents off guard every year.

9. Grapes, Raisins, and Cranberry Mixes

Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Many cranberry sauces include one or both, so skip the holiday fruit treats altogether.

“Keeping pets safe during the holidays isn’t about restriction. It’s about protection wrapped in love.”

What Is Safe for Pets on Thanksgiving?

If you can’t resist including your furry friend in the celebration, stick to:

• Small bites of plain turkey breast

• Steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans (no butter, no seasoning)

• A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin

And of course, lots of love, walks, and cozy naps.

FAQs: Thanksgiving Foods and Pet Safety

1. What Thanksgiving foods are toxic to pets?

Foods like onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and anything sweetened with xylitol are toxic to pets. Fatty foods such as turkey skin, stuffing, and gravy can also cause stomach upset or pancreatitis.

2. Can my dog or cat eat turkey on Thanksgiving?

Yes, but only plain, fully cooked turkey breast. No skin, bones, or seasoning. Avoid rich gravies or buttery drippings, which can lead to digestive issues.

3. Why is stuffing dangerous for dogs and cats?

Stuffing often contains onions, garlic, and heavy spices, all of which are harmful to pets. It’s best to keep stuffing and similar sides off your pet’s plate.

4. Is pumpkin safe for pets?

Plain, unsweetened pumpkin is safe and even beneficial for digestion. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that can upset your pet’s stomach.

5. What should I do if my pet eats something dangerous?

If your pet eats a potentially toxic food, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately. Quick action can make a huge difference.

6. Are small holiday “treats” okay for pets?

It’s safer to give them pet-specific snacks or plain, cooked vegetables like carrots or green beans. Even small amounts of rich or seasoned food can cause discomfort later.

7. How can I keep my pets safe during Thanksgiving gatherings?

Keep food and drinks out of reach, remind guests not to feed your pets, and provide a quiet space away from the kitchen and dining area where they can relax.

Celebrate Safely in Boynton Beach

Thanksgiving is about gratitude — and there’s no better reason to be thankful than the love of your pets. If you’re traveling this season, or need someone to check in during family gatherings, Barkley + Miao Pet Sitting is here to help.

We proudly serve Boynton Beach, providing personalized care and peace of mind for every pet parent.

📩 Message us today to book your holiday visits. Spots fill quickly before Thanksgiving!