Food Toxicities

  • Raisins and Grapes
    Both contain an unknown toxin which can cause kidney damage in both cats and dogs.
  • Chocolate
    Made from the fruit of the cacao tree chocolate contains the toxin compound Theobromine. This compound is a cardiac stimulant that can be fatal to dogs. Unsweetened baker’s chocolate contains 8-10 times more Theobromine than that in milk chocolate and great care should be taken to keep away from pets.
  • Garlic and Onions
    All forms, cooked, raw or powdered, contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. Cats are more susceptible than dogs.
  • Coffee/Tea/Caffeinated Beverages
    Caffeine found in these beverages stimulates cardiac output which may lead to tremors, heart arrhythmia or seizure.
  • Alcoholic beverages
    Alcoholic beverages can cause intoxication, coma or even death.
  • Macadamia nuts
    These nuts contain and unknown toxin which can affect muscles as well as the digestive and nervous systems.
  • Mushrooms
    Many mushrooms contain a toxin that affects multiple systems causing shock and even death in both dogs and cats.
  • Bones
    Cooked bones are dryer than raw bones and can splinter causing obstruction or laceration of the digestive system.
  • Fruit pits and seeds
    The pits and seeds of fruit contain Cyanogenic Glycosides which may result in cyanide poisoning. The fleshy part of these fruits is ok.
  • Nutmeg
    Nutmeg can cause tremors, seizures and central nervous system disorders.
  • Xylitol (sugar-free sweetener)
    Found in many candies and gum, Xylitol may cause liver failure.

Learn more ways to keep your pets safe!