Tricks for Giving your Pets the Right Treats

by Shannon M. Pecora, M.A.

Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital

            Soon werewolves and black cats will be a familiar sight with the approach of Halloween, a holiday full of fun, fright, and the sugary answer for anyone’s sweet tooth.  However, what’s even scarier is what could happen to your dog, cat, or any other pet if they get hold of those fun-sized chocolates or bat-shaped lollipops.  You may have heard that chocolate can be toxic—even deadly—to dogs, but did you know that it could be just as dangerous to cats and birds as well?  Furthermore, the wrappers from any candy can cause blockage in your pet’s digestive tract.  So this Halloween, make sure that the candy stays with the Trick-or-Treaters who earned it and away from your pets!

            In fact, a lot of “people foods” can be harmful to pets.  Specifically, dogs should not have grapes, raisins, or onions because those foods can cause problems such as kidney failure.  Perhaps surprisingly, cats should not have milk.  Genetically, cats are strict carnivores, so they are actually lactose-intolerant.  Certain foods may present a danger to your bird, too.  While avocado may seem like a healthy treat choice, this common ingredient in party dips and beauty products can lead to serious lung problems in birds.  In addition, iceberg lettuce, because of its high water content, may cause diarrhea in birds and small animals.

            As a general rule, it is best to stick to treats exclusively designed for your pet, such as dog biscuits, cat nip, bird millet, or hamster yogurt chips.  If you choose to offer your foods to your pets, in moderation, you can share your baby carrots with your dog or your cooked pasta and eggs with your parrot.  Table scraps of alfalfa for rabbits or oranges for guinea pigs can even offer essential nutrients.  Be careful when you share, though.  For instance, do not prepare foods for birds in non-stick pans; heated Teflon coating emits fumes that are toxic to avian species.

            No matter what you feed your pets, it is highly recommended that you research first.  For example, your veterinarian can help you choose the right base diet for your pet, then let you know what snacks and treats you can offer.  You may notice that the healthiest snack for your pet may also be the best choice for yourself.  So maybe we all should take the healthy route with our pets and avoid too much sugar this Halloween!

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