Thanksgiving is one of the most joyful times of the year. Between the family gatherings, delicious meals, and festive décor, it’s easy to get swept up in the celebration. But for our pets, the holidays can also bring unexpected dangers. Curious dogs and cats often find their way into tempting dishes, decorations, or trash, turning a day of gratitude into a trip to the emergency vet.
Last year, over 451,000 calls came into the ASPCA about pet poisonings, many around Thanksgiving. Our emergency and specialty team at Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care (PVESC) has seen first-hand how easily curious pets can find trouble when festive food and decorations are within reach.
At PVESC, our team treats pets for all kinds of holiday-related emergencies, from dogs who sneak turkey bones off the counter to cats who nibble on floral centerpieces. To help your furry family members stay safe, we’ve gathered our best Thanksgiving pet safety advice.
1. Keep People Food Off the Menu
Even the most well-behaved pets can be tempted by the smells of a Thanksgiving feast. Unfortunately, many traditional dishes contain ingredients that may be harmful or toxic to pets. Knowing which Thanksgiving foods are toxic to dogs and cats can help you prevent a serious emergency.
Foods to Avoid
- Turkey bones or skin: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, while fatty turkey skin can trigger gastroenteritis and/or pancreatitis.
- Onions and garlic: Found in stuffing, casseroles, and gravies, these ingredients are toxic to both dogs and cats and can cause anemia.
- Rich foods: Gravy, butter, and heavily seasoned sides can cause gastroenteritis and/or pancreatitis.
- Unbaked dough: Raw yeast dough can expand in your pet’s stomach and produce alcohol during fermentation, leading to bloating or intoxication.
- Grapes and raisins: Often found in salads or baked goods, these can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Pets
If you want to make your pet feel included, there are plenty of safe Thanksgiving foods for pets you can share in moderation. Offer a few bites of plain, boneless, white meat turkey, cooked sweet potatoes, green beans, or pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling). These can make for a fun and healthy holiday treat without the risks.
Always skip seasonings, butter, and sauces. Keep in mind that portion control is key, too much of even pet-safe food can still cause stomach upset. Consult your veterinarian prior to offering any new foods, particularly if your pet is managing a medical condition such as pancreatitis, diabetes, or kidney disease.
2. When Desserts Turn Dangerous
Desserts are often the biggest holiday temptation, but they can also be the most dangerous. Chocolate and xylitol (a sugar substitute found in sugar-free treats) are both hazardous to pets.
Holiday Pet Safety in the Kitchen
Keep pets away from baking ingredients and mixing bowls. Even small amounts of raw dough can expand and cause bloating, while raw eggs can lead to foodborne illness. Store desserts high up and out of reach, and remind guests not to feed pets from the table.
If your dog or cat eats something they shouldn’t, don’t wait to see if symptoms develop. Call your local emergency vet immediately. Early intervention is often the difference between mild symptoms and a more serious medical emergency.
3. Minimize Stress and Distractions
Thanksgiving gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Strangers, noise, and constant activity can cause anxiety or even lead to escape attempts. Stress is one of the most overlooked Thanksgiving dangers for pets, but it’s easy to prevent with a little planning.
Tips to Keep Pets Calm
- Create a quiet, cozy space away from guests where your pet can relax.
- Provide familiar bedding, toys, and water to help them feel comfortable.
- Ask visitors not to feed or disturb pets without permission.
- Keep doors and gates closed to prevent accidental escapes.
If your pet becomes anxious during social events, try calming aids like pheromone diffusers or soft background music. A walk before guests arrive can also help burn off excess energy and reduce stress. You can also contact your primary care veterinarian to discuss specific stress reduction and anti-anxiety techniques.
4. Choose Pet-Safe Decorations
Festive decorations help make the season special, but they can also pose hazards. Some pets are naturally curious and may chew or knock over items that look interesting.
Common Thanksgiving Pet Hazards
- Candles: Curious pets can easily knock them over, causing burns or fires. Use flameless candles instead.
- Essential oils and potpourri: Many contain ingredients that can irritate pets’ skin or airways.
- Table décor: Corn husks, small ornaments, or artificial fruits can cause choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed.
- Toxic plants: Lilies, chrysanthemums, and amaryllis can be harmful if ingested.
Choose pet-safe decorations like fabric garlands, paper leaves, or unscented candles. If you love floral centerpieces, stick to pet-safe flowers like roses, sunflowers, or marigolds.
5. Watch the Trash
After the meal is over, don’t forget about the trash. Garbage cans filled with food scraps and bones can be irresistible to pets. Unfortunately, they’re one of the top sources of holiday hazards for pets.
Preventing a Trash Raid
- Use a covered or locked trash can.
- Take garbage outside before going to bed.
- Keep compost bins secured.
Spoiled food can cause gastroenteritis or pancreatitis. If your pet starts vomiting or acting lethargic, seek veterinary care right away.
6. Know When to Call the Vet
Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you suspect your pet ate something unsafe or is showing signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, or difficulty breathing, contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.
When to Call the Vet
- Your pet ingested a toxic food or household item.
- They are vomiting repeatedly,have diarrhea, or stop eating.
- You notice signs of bloating, pain, or sudden weakness.
- Your pet appears disoriented or unusually tired.
At PVESC, we are proud to have an emergency room open on Thanksgiving and every other day of the year. Our emergency team is available 24/7 to provide immediate care when your pet needs it most.
A Safe and Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving should be a time of joy and togetherness, not an unexpected trip to the emergency room. With a few simple precautions, you can protect your pets from common Thanksgiving pet hazards and enjoy a safe, stress-free holiday.
Remember, the best way to show love this season is by keeping your pets healthy. Skip the table scraps, secure decorations, and make sure your trash is out of reach.
If your pet needs urgent care, PVESC is here for you 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Our team hopes your holiday is filled with health, warmth, and wagging tails.