Some people prefer sweet treats, while others would rather indulge in savory goodies during the holidays. Do you know your four-legged family member’s preference? The south Austin veterinarians at Oliver Animal Hospital don’t want your festivities interrupted by a veterinary emergency, so we provide information about holiday treats you should avoid and offer suggestions for spoiling your furry pal.

Potential pet treat holiday hazards

When you are enjoying your holiday feast, you may be tempted to share your plate with your pet, but many dishes included in the spread can be dangerous for your furry pal. Examples include:

  • Fatty foods — Ham, turkey skin, butter soaked mashed potatoes, and other fatty foods can trigger a painful and potentially life-threatening condition called pancreatitis. 
  • Turkey bones — Ensure your pet doesn’t get their paws on the broken wishbone. Cooked bones are extremely brittle and can break, injuring your furry pal’s mouth or gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
  • Corn cob — Many pets love gnawing on a juicy corn cob, but an ingested cob can cause a GI obstruction, which may require surgical removal.
  • Chocolate — What holiday gathering is complete without chocolate? However, you must keep your pet away from the desert table, because chocolate is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, elevated heart and respiration rate, and seizures in severe cases.
  • Xylitol — Xylitol is a sugar substitute often used in baked goods that is good for humans but causes a dose-dependent increase in a pet’s insulin, leading to hypoglycemia. Xylitol can also cause liver failure in some pets.
  • Raisins — Raisins, as well as grapes, can cause kidney failure in pets.
  • Onions — Onions and other similar vegetables, such as garlic, shallots, chives, and leeks, can damage a pet’s red blood cells and lead to anemia.

If you know or suspect your pet ingested a toxic food, contact Animal Poison Control for expert advice on caring for your pet.

Pet safe holiday plate

Typically, pets fare better when they maintain a regular diet, because any sudden change in food can lead to a GI upset. However, during the holidays, many people want to share yummy festive food with their four-legged friend. If you insist on making a holiday plate for your pet, offer only small amounts of the following pet safe foods:

  • White turkey meat — Plain, unseasoned, fully cooked white turkey meat is a good choice for spoiling your pet during the holidays.
  • Green beans — Fresh or low-sodium canned green beans served without seasonings are healthy treats your pet can enjoy year-round.
  • Sweet potatoes — Plain baked or steamed sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, and many pets love the taste.
  • Canned pumpkin — Canned pumpkin, as opposed to pumpkin pie filling, is another healthy, tasty option for your four-legged friend.

Pet safe holiday baked goods

You can find numerous recipes online if you want to bake your furry pal a fun holiday treat. Some of our favorites include:

  • Turkey and cranberry dog bones — Mix 3.5 cups whole wheat flour, one teaspoon baking powder, one cup cooked and shredded turkey, one cup dried cranberries, one egg, one tablespoon olive oil, and one cup low-sodium chicken broth. When the mixture is a dough-like in consistency, shape the dough using your hands or cookie cutters, and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until browned.
  • Sweet potato pumpkin pet treats — Mix one cup mashed sweet potatoes, a half cup of 100% pure pumpkin puree, a half cup of water, and one egg until thoroughly combined, and add 1.5 cups brown rice flour. Use a cookie cutter or shape the dough into bite-sized pieces, place pieces on a parchment lined baking sheet, bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees, and then flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Apple, oat, and peanut butter treats — Peel, core, and grate two apples and combine with one cup rolled oats, a half cup of flour, one quarter cup xylitol free peanut butter, and one egg. Roll the dough to about a half-inch thickness, cut with a cookie cutter, and place treats on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes at 300 degrees. 

Pet holiday treat alternatives

While many pets appreciate a yummy edible goodie, some prefer one of the many available inedible  options. The veterinarians in south Austin recommend:

  • Gift — Don’t leave your pet off your gift list. Great options include a comfy orthopedic bed, a water fountain to encourage water intake, a food puzzle toy to make mealtimes more entertaining, and a laser pointer toy for your frisky feline friend.
  • Excursion — Take advantage of the cooler temperatures and take your pet on a fun excursion, letting them sniff and explore to their heart’s content.
  • Pamper — If your pet enjoys a nice brushing and bath, give them a pampering spay day. Don’t forget to spend extra time on their favorite itchy spot.

The best gift you can give your four-legged friend is the gift of wellness. Schedule your pet’s annual wellness exam, so your south Austin veterinarians at Oliver Animal Hospital can ensure they are happy and healthy for the new year.