The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and sweet treats. But, while you’re enjoying the celebration, your dog or cat could be one bite away from a dangerous situation. At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, our veterinary team sees more emergency visits during the holidays than almost any other time of year, often because pets have eaten something they shouldn’t.
Knowing which foods are toxic to pets and how to act quickly can make all the difference for your furry family member this season.
Common Holiday Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs and Cats
1. Chocolate and Candy
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are highly toxic to dogs and cats. Dark and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or seizures. Sugar-free candies and gums are also hazardous because they often contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and even liver failure.
2. Turkey Bones and Fat Trimmings
While turkey is a delicious protein, the bones can splinter, leading to choking, internal punctures, or blockages. Fat trimmings, gravy, and rich meats can cause pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
3. Stuffing and Onions
Holiday stuffing and side dishes often contain onions, garlic, leeks, or chives, all of which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in dogs and cats. Even small amounts can make your pet sick, especially over repeated exposures.
4. Grapes, Raisins, and Currants
Found in fruitcakes, cookies, and trail mixes, these ingredients are extremely toxic to dogs and cats, potentially leading to kidney failure. Never assume a small amount is safe. Each pet’s sensitivity can vary greatly.
5. Alcohol and Yeast Dough
Pets should never consume alcohol, even accidentally. It can cause vomiting, disorientation, and potentially fatal respiratory failure. Raw yeast dough is also risky because it can expand in the stomach, leading to bloat or dangerous alcohol buildup during fermentation.
6. Dairy, Desserts, and Sweet Treats
Many pets are lactose intolerant, and heavy cream or cheese-laden dishes can cause digestive upset. Cakes and cookies often contain hidden dangers like chocolate, nutmeg, or xylitol, so it’s best to keep desserts out of reach.
7. Nuts and Nut Butters
Certain nuts, such as macadamias and walnuts, are toxic to dogs, while others are high in fat and can cause pancreatitis. Even nut butters should be checked for xylitol before sharing with your pet.
Safe Treat Alternatives
Want your pets to feel included in the celebration? Offer them plain cooked turkey (no bones or seasoning), a few bites of carrot or green beans, or pet-safe holiday treats from your favorite local store. You can even find veterinarian-approved dental chews or treats that let your dog or cat join the festivities safely.
What To Do If Your Pet Eats Something Dangerous
If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten something harmful, don’t wait for symptoms since some toxins take hours to show visible effects. Contact East Hill Animal Hospital immediately at (850) 437-9932 or visit our state-of-the-art facility on Cervantes Street in Pensacola.
Our veterinarians can provide fast, professional treatment to help reduce toxin absorption and protect your pet’s health. In some cases, quick action can mean the difference between a full recovery and serious illness.
How East Hill Animal Hospital Can Help
At East Hill Animal Hospital, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to provide the highest level of veterinary diagnostics and treatment in Pensacola. If your pet becomes ill after eating something they shouldn’t, we offer:
- Emergency appointments and fast diagnostics
- Advanced HDVI CT and digital imaging to detect internal issues quickly
- Comprehensive bloodwork and lab testing
- On-site pharmacy and IV fluid therapy for rapid treatment
- Aftercare monitoring and nutritional counseling to support long-term recovery
We also help pet parents prepare for the holidays with preventive care visits, nutritional advice, and safety tips tailored to your home and lifestyle.
Keep Your Holidays Happy and Healthy
This holiday season, remember: what’s safe for people isn’t always safe for pets. By keeping harmful foods out of reach and knowing where to turn for help, you can ensure your celebrations stay joyful for both two- and four-legged family members.
At East Hill Animal Hospital in Pensacola, we’re here to keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy all year long.
📍 Visit Us: 801 E. Cervantes St., Pensacola, FL 32501
📞 Call: (850) 437-9932
🌐 Learn More: EastHillAnimalHospital.com