Furry Friendsgiving: Thanksgiving Foods You Can and Can’t Share

The holiday season is coming up, which means one thing is on every foodie’s mind: Thanksgiving. This fun-filled family holiday is a great time to reconnect with loved ones, but it’s also jam-packed with some delicious traditional foods that many people only enjoy once a year. Want to include your furry friend in the festivities? The more the merrier! Just make sure you’re feeding your pet Thanksgiving foods that won’t make them sick.

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid

There are a few Thanksgiving eats that you shouldn’t give to your cat.

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is packed with seasonings and sugar, which can upset your cat’s stomach. If you would like to include your furry friend in this tradition, you can give them some plain pumpkin puree instead.

Raisin or Chocolate Desserts

It’s common knowledge that furry friends shouldn’t eat chocolate, but raisins are equally as poisonous. Ingesting either of these substances could cause diarrhea, vomiting, or even kidney failure for your cat.

Stuffing

Stuffing is usually packed with seasonings like garlic, onion, and scallions, which are all part of what makes it so delicious. However, these ingredients are toxic to cats and can cause very serious cases of anemia.

Thanksgiving Foods to Share

While there are common Thanksgiving dishes to keep away from your cat, there are also safe food items that you could treat your kitty to on Thanksgiving Day.

Gravy

Gravy can make for a great special treat for your cat. It’s best to feed it to them in small quantities due to the high salt and fat content. If your gravy contains onion or garlic, though, you might want to skip it.

Turkey

Turkey is a delicious and nutritious meal for your cat. Give them small pieces of skinless white or dark meat, or even cooked pieces of giblet if that’s what your cat prefers. Make sure you take away any turkey bones, as they could splinter while your cat is eating and cause pain in their esophagus or stomach.

Green Beans

On their own, green beans are a perfectly healthy snack for your cat. As with the other foods, you will just want to ensure they are not cooked with onions or garlic.

Keep Your Pet Healthy This Holiday Season at Feline Medical Clinic

As you head into the holiday season, give your pet the gift of good health with regular vet checkups. Schedule your next visit with us at Feline Medical Clinic today!