9 Human Foods That are Dangerous for Pets

9 Human Foods That are Dangerous for Pets

You adore your furry companions and may want to share everything with them, but did you know that feeding them human food can be harmful to their health? As a pet owner, you must be aware of human foods to avoid feeding your pet. Even if they’re beneficial for you, some foods may not have the same effect on your pet, so keep these foods away from them:

  1. Avocados
    This fruit is very nutritious, but it is harmful to horses, rabbits, donkeys, birds, goats, and sheep. It is known to cause cardiovascular damage, and it can also lead to death in birds in some cases. Rabbits, donkeys, and ruminants may experience swollen head and neck as a result of avocado consumption.
  2. Alcoholic beverages
    Any kind of alcohol or foods with alcoholic content are among the people foods to avoid feeding your pet, as they trigger nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. They also damage the central nervous system and cause breathing trouble and blood acidity, resulting in a coma and subsequent death. Get in touch with your vet right away if your pet has accidentally ingested alcohol.
  3. Coffee/chocolate
    These contain methylxanthines that are present in cacao seeds, which are derived from the plant used for making coffee beans. If ingested by pets, it can lead to hyperactivity, excessive urination and thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, diarrhea, vomiting, panting, seizures, tremors, and even death.
  4. Citrus
    The leaves, seeds, or stems of citrus plants, as well as citrus essential oils, contain citric acid in varying amounts. It may trigger irritation and can damage the central nervous system when consumed in large amounts.
  5. Coconut
    Ingesting coconut oil or coconut in small quantities will not cause much harm, but coconut milk or flesh has oils that can trigger an upset stomach or cause diarrhea. Also, coconut water is extremely rich in potassium, so it’s best kept away from pets.
  6. Macadamia nuts
    These people foods are among the top ones to avoid feeding your pets, as they are known to cause depression, weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia in canines. The symptoms manifest within 12 hours of ingestion and can continue for up to 2 days.
  7. Dairy foods
    Pets lack the enzymes required for breaking down lactose, which is present in dairy products. This is why ingesting too much dairy can cause diarrhea and digestive issues in pets.
  8. Raw meat or eggs
    These have bacteria like E.coli and salmonella, which are harmful to both humans and pets. Raw eggs are known to reduce biotin absorption, causing skin problems. Although a healthy option for dogs in the wild, your pet can choke on these bones at home or get injured if a small piece gets stuck in their digestive tract.
  9. Salty foods or snacks
    Excess salt can be dangerous for pets and causes excess urination and thirst. The common symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, depression, elevated body temperature, tremors, and seizures, which can also cause death.