Safe Treats for Pets During the Holidays
Dogs and cats can get into trouble quickly when holiday bites come from the table. A portion of poultry can carry as many calories as a large hamburger for humans, and certain foods can trigger serious illness in pets. HealthDay has consistently reported this risk, underscoring the need for careful treat planning during festive seasons.
Many pets enjoy the sparkle of New Year celebrations, but owners must be prudent. Treats should make up less than ten percent of a dog or cat’s daily calories. For example, an active dog weighing 11 kilograms typically needs around 600 kilocalories per day, so treats should provide no more than 60 kilocalories daily. That roughly equals about 20 grams of mozzarella. For cats, daily treats should stay around 20 calories, which is about seven ounces of mozzarella or roughly 10 grams of turkey wings per day.
Salt content in many pet treats is a concern because excessive salt has been linked to heart issues in animals. Pets with kidney disease should avoid treats high in phosphorus. Fatty foods or unusual items can cause diarrhea or vomiting in companions.
Some foods pose particular danger to animals, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, the artificial sweetener xylitol found in gum and sugar-free candies, onions, garlic, bones whether raw or cooked, high-fat items like ice cream, raw meat, and macadamia nuts. Conversely, many fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs. Acceptable options include apples, pumpkins, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, melons, carrots, corn, and green beans. The key is to avoid seasonings, oils, salt, and sauces that could harm pets.
Pets naturally explore around the dining area and may grab food from plates or bones from trash. To prevent urgent vet visits, it is wise not to leave holiday food unattended and to keep waste out of reach. It also pays to explain holiday rules to guests, especially if a pet has existing health conditions.
In prior discussions, scientists have explored topics such as stem cells derived from dog urine. Health observations and ongoing research continue to shape what is known about pet health and safety during holidays.