As Thanksgiving approaches, many families in the Denville, New Jersey area are eagerly planning festive meals and gatherings. But while this holiday season is full of delicious dishes and joyful moments, it can also present some hidden risks for our pets. Knowing which Thanksgiving foods are safe and which can be dangerous for your pets is essential for keeping them safe.

Here at MountainView Veterinary Hospital, we’ve compiled a simple guide on Thanksgiving food do’s and don’ts to help you enjoy the holiday while keeping your pets happy and healthy. If you have any questions about these tips or want to learn more, visit our Contact Us page or call our Denville hospital directly.

Foods Pets Should Avoid This Thanksgiving

Some Thanksgiving dishes might be safe for humans, but they can be harmful or even toxic for pets. Here are the top foods to keep away from your pet’s bowl:

  • Chocolate and Xylitol: These are commonly found in desserts and baked goods. While chocolate is toxic for both dogs and cats, xylitol (an artificial sweetener) can cause a severe drop in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs.
  • Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Many Thanksgiving recipes, such as stuffing or gravies, contain onions and garlic. These ingredients can damage your pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.
  • Rich, Fatty Foods: Foods like turkey skin, gravy, and buttery mashed potatoes are high in fats, which can be difficult for pets to digest. Fatty foods can increase the risk of pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
  • Bones from Turkey or Ham: Cooked bones can splinter easily and cause choking, blockages, or tears in the digestive tract. If you’d like to treat your pet, stick to pet-safe treats instead.

Safe Foods You Can Share with Your Pet

If you’d like to let your pet participate in the Thanksgiving festivities, some pet-safe foods are perfect for sharing. Try to keep these treats plain and unseasoned to avoid upsetting your pet’s stomach:

  • Turkey Meat (No Skin or Bones): A small piece of plain, cooked turkey meat can be a tasty treat for your dog or cat, as long as it’s free from seasoning, skin, and bones.
  • Plain Pumpkin (Not the Pie Filling): Pumpkin is full of fiber and great for digestion. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which often contains added sugars and spices that aren’t safe for pets.
  • Sweet Potatoes (Unseasoned): Plain, cooked sweet potatoes can be a nutritious snack for pets. Avoid adding butter, sugar, or spices, which could upset their stomach.

These pet-safe options can add a bit of holiday joy to your pet’s day while keeping them safe from common Thanksgiving hazards.

Creating a Calm Space for Your Pet

With guests, noise, and extra activity, Thanksgiving can be a stressful time for pets. Creating a designated quiet space can help your pet relax and feel safe. Here’s how to make a cozy retreat:

  1. Choose a Quiet Room: Select a room away from the main gathering area where your pet can have some privacy. Make sure it’s a place they’re comfortable in.
  2. Set Up Comfort Items: Bring in familiar items, such as their bed, favorite toys, and a blanket. Having familiar scents and textures will help your pet feel secure.
  3. Provide Fresh Water and a Few Treats: Keeping fresh water and a few of their favorite treats nearby can help reduce anxiety and ensure they have everything they need in their space.
  4. Limit Access to the Main Gathering Area: While some pets enjoy being around people, others may find it overwhelming. Let your pet come out on their own terms rather than forcing them to interact with guests.

By preparing a calm space, you can help prevent behavioral issues, anxiety, and even the risk of escape due to stress. 

Recognizing Signs of Pet Distress or Food Poisoning

Even with careful preparation, pets can sometimes get into things they shouldn’t. Knowing the signs of food poisoning or distress can help you respond quickly in case of an emergency. Watch for symptoms like:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy or lack of coordination
  • Increased drooling
  • Seizures (in severe cases)

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Quick action can make a big difference, especially if your pet has ingested something toxic. Learn more about our emergency services for peace of mind during the holidays.

Thanksgiving Emergency Preparedness Tips

In addition to keeping hazardous foods out of reach, here are a few more ways to be prepared in case of a pet emergency during Thanksgiving:

  • Have Contact Information Ready: Keep the contact information for our hospital, a local emergency pet clinic, and the ASPCA Poison Control readily available. It’s always better to be prepared than to scramble in a crisis.
  • Pet-Proof Your Kitchen: With many people in the kitchen, it’s easy for scraps or unsafe items to fall on the floor. Consider using baby gates to keep pets out of high-risk areas or supervise them closely.
  • Monitor Trash Cans: After the meal, make sure food scraps, packaging, and other harmful items are disposed of properly. Pets are known for rummaging through the trash, especially when something smells tasty.

Being proactive and vigilant can help ensure your Thanksgiving remains safe and stress-free for everyone, pets included.

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for our loved ones, including our pets. By following these Thanksgiving food do’s and don’ts, you can keep your pet safe, happy, and part of the holiday festivities. At MountainView Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to support you with advice, preventative care, and emergency services if you need us.

If you have any questions or concerns about holiday safety for your pet, feel free to reach out to us through our Contact page or schedule a wellness visit. Wishing you a safe and joyful Thanksgiving from all of us at MountainView Veterinary Hospital!