As we gather with family and friends to celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving on October 14th, it’s natural to want to share the joy – and the food – with our beloved pets. However, many traditional Thanksgiving foods can pose a risk to our furry companions. At Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital, we want to ensure your pets stay safe and healthy this holiday season. Here’s a guide on which foods are safe to share with your pets and which ones you should avoid.

Thanksgiving Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Pet

Not all holiday foods are off-limits! There are some options that your pet can enjoy in moderation, but always make sure any food you offer is plain, cooked, and free of seasonings, sauces, or added fats.

  • Turkey (Without the Skin or Bones): Lean, white turkey meat is a good source of protein and is generally safe for pets if it’s unseasoned and fully cooked. Be sure to remove the skin, which is high in fat and could lead to digestive upset. Also, ensure no bones are present, as these can splinter and cause blockages or injuries.
  • Plain Vegetables: Cooked vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are great choices, but only if they’re free from butter, seasoning, and oils. These vegetables are nutritious and easy on your pet’s digestive system.
  • Pumpkin (Without Sugar or Spice): Plain, cooked pumpkin is high in fiber and can help support digestion in dogs and cats. Just be sure it’s not part of a pie or spiced dish.

Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid

While it may be tempting to sneak your pet a bit of everything from your plate, some Thanksgiving staples can be harmful and should be avoided altogether.

  • Turkey Skin and Bones: The high fat content in turkey skin can cause gastrointestinal upset or trigger a painful condition called pancreatitis. Turkey bones can splinter easily and lead to choking, blockages, or internal injuries. For more information on pancreatitis, check out our Pancreatitis PDF for detailed insights into this condition.
  • Stuffing and Gravy: Ingredients in stuffing, such as onions, garlic, and certain herbs, are toxic to dogs and cats. Gravy is often high in fat and salt, which can also lead to digestive issues or pancreatitis.
  • Mashed Potatoes with Add-ins: While plain mashed potatoes are generally safe, many recipes call for butter, cream, garlic, or onion powder, all of which are harmful to pets.
  • Cranberry Sauce: Many cranberry sauces contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
  • Pies and Desserts: Sweets, especially chocolate-based desserts or those containing raisins, should never be given to pets. Both chocolate and raisins are toxic to dogs, and the sugar and fat content can cause digestive problems.

What to Do If Your Pet Gets into Thanksgiving Leftovers

Despite our best efforts, accidents happen. If your pet manages to sneak something they shouldn’t, it’s important to know what to look for and when to seek veterinary care.

  • Symptoms to Watch For: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a bloated abdomen are all signs that your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t. In cases of suspected pancreatitis, you might notice more severe symptoms like repeated vomiting, fever, or signs of abdominal pain. Learn more about pancreatitis and its risks in our detailed guide.
  • When to Contact Your Vet: If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, or if you know they’ve eaten a potentially harmful food, it’s important to contact a veterinarian right away. Our team at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital is here to help. You can reach us directly through our contact page or request an appointment here.

Preventing Problems Before They Happen

The best way to ensure your pet has a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving is to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to prevent any food-related mishaps:

  • Keep Food Out of Reach: Make sure to keep your pet away from the table and counters where food is being prepared or served. Pets are often tempted by the smell of rich, fatty foods, so supervision is key.
  • Provide Pet-Friendly Treats: If you want to include your pet in the celebration, consider offering them their own special meal. You can prepare a small plate of pet-safe foods like turkey, plain vegetables, or pumpkin, or offer a few of their favourite treats.
  • Have a Plan for Guests: If you’re hosting, remind your guests not to feed your pet from the table. It’s easy for well-meaning visitors to slip your pet something harmful without realizing the risks.

A Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving for Your Pet

Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, but it’s also important to keep your pet’s health and safety in mind. With careful planning and a watchful eye on what your pet eats, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday with your furry family member. If you have any concerns or questions, our team at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital is here to help. You can learn more about our services here or get in touch with our friendly team.