Which Thanksgiving Foods Are Safe for Your Pets?

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — While you’re preparing your Thanksgiving meal, a friend may be waiting in the kitchen for a bite, but you need to proceed carefully.

“Make sure you pay attention to what your pets are getting into because a lot of the table food we make for our families isn’t really safe for our animals at home,” said Ruben Cantu with the Fresno Animal Center.

The American Kennel Club says dogs should avoid turkey bones, skin or gravy, ham, stuffing, casseroles, mashed potatoes, onions, garlic and more.

“Other things you don’t know, artificial sweeteners can be very toxic to your pet, so you should keep an eye on the ingredients for things like pumpkin pie,” Cantu explained.

The American Kennel Club says dogs can eat unseasoned, boneless or skinless turkey meat, pumpkin, apples, peas and green beans.

“The best meal for your dog on Thanksgiving is his own dog food,” Cantu said.

Your cats have a similar Thanksgiving meal.

According to Daily Paws, a pet parenting website, your cat can eat unseasoned turkey or ham, sage, cranberries, potatoes, green beans and squash.

But keep turkey skin, bones, drippings, stuffing, garlic and onions away from your paws.

“If you’re sitting at the table asking yourself, ‘Is this safe for my pet?’ It’s better to say ‘no’ than ‘yes’ because you don’t want to end up in an emergency situation that can really put a damper on your celebration,” Cantu explained.

If your pet eats food he shouldn’t, pay close attention to his behavior.

“Are they acting normal? Are they a little more lethargic? “Vomit?” said Cantu.

If your pet exhibits these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

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