Everyday Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

We love to share with our pets, but a surprising number of everyday foods are toxic to dogs and cats — some in tiny amounts. Keep these off the menu, and make sure the whole family (especially kids) knows the rules.

The serious ones

• Chocolate — the darker it is, the more dangerous. Causes vomiting, racing heart, tremors and worse.
• Grapes and raisins — can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
• Onions, garlic, leeks (raw, cooked or in gravy) — damage red blood cells and cause anaemia. Cats are especially sensitive.
• Xylitol — a sweetener in sugar-free gum, sweets, peanut butter and some baked goods. Even a little can cause a dangerous blood-sugar crash and liver damage in dogs.
• Macadamia nuts — cause weakness, tremors and vomiting in dogs.
• Alcohol and caffeine — never safe.

Watch out for these too

• Cooked bones — they splinter and can pierce the gut. A braai treat gone wrong is a real risk in South African homes.
• Avocado — best avoided, and the pip is a choking and blockage hazard.
• Fatty leftovers and boerewors — rich, fatty scraps can trigger painful, dangerous pancreatitis.
• Raw bread dough — expands in the stomach.

If your pet eats something toxic

Don't wait for symptoms. Phone your vet or an after-hours animal hospital immediately and tell them what and how much was eaten, and when. If you can, keep the packaging. With many toxins, fast action makes all the difference — don't try to "wait and see".

Safe treats instead

Plain cooked chicken, small pieces of carrot or apple (no pips), or proper pet treats are happy, safe alternatives to slip under the table.