Toxic foods for dogs and cats: the ASPCA list explained

Why human food can be dangerous

Dogs and cats process some substances very differently from people. A food that is harmless or even healthy for us can damage a pet’s kidneys, red blood cells or nervous system. The ASPCA list of people foods to avoid is the reference most U.S. veterinarians point owners to.

The ASPCA list, explained

Food	Main risk (per ASPCA)
Chocolate, coffee, caffeine	Methylxanthines: vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, irregular heartbeat, tremors, seizures; darker chocolate is worse
Xylitol (sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, toothpaste)	Low blood sugar and possible liver damage
Grapes and raisins	Kidney damage in dogs
Onions, garlic, chives	Red blood cell damage and anemia; cats are more susceptible
Macadamia nuts	Weakness, tremors, vomiting and high temperature in dogs
Alcohol	Vomiting, incoordination, breathing problems, coma
Raw yeast dough	Expands in the stomach and can cause dangerous bloating; also produces alcohol
Very salty foods	Excess thirst, electrolyte problems, tremors, seizures
Other nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)	High fat: vomiting, diarrhea, possible pancreatitis
Raw meat and eggs	Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli
Bones	Injury or obstruction of the digestive tract
Milk and dairy	Diarrhea and digestive upset

Avocado is mainly a risk for birds, rabbits and some large animals rather than dogs and cats, and citrus usually causes only minor stomach upset in small amounts.

The most dangerous ones in practice

• Xylitol is hidden in many “sugar-free” products, including some peanut butters. Always read labels before sharing.
• Grapes and raisins — the reaction is unpredictable, so there is no safe amount to rely on.
• Dark and baking chocolate — a small piece can be serious for a small dog.
• Onion and garlic — including powders in sauces, gravies, baby food and leftovers.

What to do if your pet eats something toxic

1. Take away what is left and stop further eating.
2. Check the label and estimate how much was eaten and when.
3. Call for advice: your vet, an emergency clinic or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a fee may apply).
4. Do not induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
5. Go to the clinic if advised, bringing the package.

Do not wait for symptoms. Some reactions, such as kidney damage from grapes or low blood sugar from xylitol, can be prevented or reduced with early treatment.

Safer treats

Plenty of foods are fine in small amounts for most dogs, such as plain cooked chicken without seasoning, plain cooked carrots or green beans, or apple slices without seeds. Introduce anything new slowly and keep treats to a small share of daily calories. For cats, which are obligate carnivores, small pieces of plain cooked meat are better than fruit or vegetables. If your pet has a health condition, ask your veterinarian first.

Keeping a pet-safe kitchen

• Keep counters clear; many dogs are expert counter surfers.
• Use a lidded trash can or keep it behind a closed door.
• Store gum, candy and baked goods out of reach, including in bags and coat pockets.
• Tell guests and children not to share food.
• Be extra careful at holidays and parties, when chocolate, alcohol and fatty leftovers are everywhere.

Cats are different

Cats are pickier, so food poisoning is less common, but they are especially sensitive to onions and garlic and should never be given medications made for people or dogs. Lilies, though not a food, are one of the most dangerous household hazards for cats.

Related: dog poisoning: what to do and the pet first aid guide.