Foods To Avoid Giving To Pets On Thanksgiving

AUSTIN, TX — Thanksgiving is a time of holiday feasts, but the food of the day could pose trouble for pets.

Citing the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Food Safety News reports the simple task of feeding pets turkey could end up badly with undercooked bird. Floral arrangements should be placed out of reach of pets as the plants could make pets sick if they munch on them, according to the report. And don't get us started on alcoholic drinks — another holiday staple that should be kept far from pets.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals offers the following holiday tips for pet owners:

• Talkin’ Turkey: If you decide to feed your pet a small bite of turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don’t offer her raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain salmonella bacteria. Do not give your pet the left over carcass as the bones could be problematic for the digestive tract.
• No Bread Dough: Don’t spoil your pet’s holiday by giving him access to raw yeast bread dough. When a dog or cat ingests raw bread dough, the yeast continues to convert the sugars in the dough to carbon dioxide gas and alcohol, according to the report. This can result in bloated drunken pets, which could become a life-threatening emergency, requiring hospitalization.
• Don’t Let Them Eat Cake: If you plan to bake Thanksgiving desserts, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs—they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning Food Safety News reported.

But pet owners should rest easy. A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potatoes or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn't pose any problems for pets, according to the publication. For more information on other foods to avoid feeding pits, click here.