Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips for Pets

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course—delicious food! While it’s tempting to share holiday treats with your furry friends, not everything on the table is safe for pets. Here’s a quick guide:

Safe in Small Amounts:

  • Turkey (plain, cooked, boneless, skinless) – A little lean white meat is fine.

  • Plain vegetables – Carrots, green beans, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes (without butter, sugar, or seasoning) are healthy options.

  • Mashed potatoes (plain only) – No butter, cream, garlic, or onion.

Not Safe for Pets:

  • Turkey bones and skin – Bones can splinter and cause choking or injury, while fatty skin can upset stomachs.

  • Stuffing and gravy – Often contain onions, garlic, and heavy seasoning, which are toxic to pets.

  • Desserts (especially chocolate, xylitol, raisins, grapes) – All are dangerous and can cause serious illness.

  • Alcohol and caffeine – Even small amounts can be harmful.

🎃 Pro tip: If you want your pet to feel included, prepare a small dish of their own with plain turkey and pet-safe veggies. Or consider a special pet-friendly treat from the store.

By keeping holiday foods safe, you’ll ensure your pets enjoy Thanksgiving right alongside the family—without an emergency trip to the vet!