PetKnows

Veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker recently appeared on ABC News to discuss some “people foods” that are harmful, and sometimes deadly for your pets. Some of these are well-known, such as chocolate and grapes; however, there are some foods that not too many people would necessarily recognize as poisonous for their pets. All of the foods that Dr. Becker has mentioned in the video are foods that are commonly found around the house. While the video, for the most part, targets foods that dogs should not eat, Dr. Becker also mentions some foods that are harmful for birds and rodents. Here is a summary of what Dr. Becker discusses in his video:

1. Chocolate - Dark and White. Chocolate is harmful for your pets because it increases their heart rate and respiration, and may also cause seizures and death. Although both dark and white chocolates are harmful, dark chocolate is 10 times more harmful for your pet than white chocolate. It takes about 1 ounce of dark chocolate to have an affect on a 10lb dog; while white chocolate takes up to 10 ounces for a 10 lb dog.
2. Caffeine - Dr. Becker did not specifically mention the health hazards associated with animals consuming caffeine. However, he strongly advised to keep all caffeinated products away from pets. He mentions that it only takes 2-3 coffee beans to harm your dog.
3. Macadamia Nuts - this is one that probably not too many people know about. These nuts are not deadly for your dog, however they can cause temporary paralysis to the dog’s rear legs. It takes dogs typically about 72 hours to fully recover and walk again.
4. Gum - contains xylitol which is harmful for your dog. It only takes about 2 pieces of gum to have an affect on your dog. The problems are that it makes your dog feel weak, and eventually can cause liver failure.
5. Grapes/Raisins - this one is fairly well-known in the animal enthusiast community. Although it’s still not certain why it happens, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs 2-3 days after they consume it.
6. Avocado - This one’s harmful for your birds and rodents. The problem that’s associated is fluid build-up around the lungs and heart, which can be deadly for your pet.
7. Raw Eggs and Chicken - can contain salmonella and E. coli. Some dog owners have been trying raw diets for their pets, however there are some health hazards that can come with eating raw chicken and eggs. Aside from salmonella and E. coli, raw eggs also contain avidin, which can cause dry skin in dogs (the common misconception that raw eggs improve skin health).
8. Onion/Garlic/Chives - Causes upset stomach and blood in the urine.
9. Raw Bones and Milk- Raw bones can splinter off and cause intestinal issues. The milk that we humans drink contains lactose, which animals can’t digest. The suggestion is to purchase special milk for cats and other pets.

Should your pet ingest something poisonous do not try to cause your pet to regurgitate it. This can cause further damage, especially with cleaning supplies that are very basic, and can eat through the esophagus wall. Dr. Becker recommends squirting some hydrogen peroxide using a feeding syringe into the corner of the pet’s mouth, by pulling out the cheek. He demonstrates the proper technique in the video below.

\”Are You Poisoning Your Pet?\”