Skip to content

NorthCare- North Vancouver Animal Hospital & West Vancouver West Vancouver Veterinary Clinic

Food & Human Foods That Poison Dogs & Cats

Pets are more than companions—they’re family. As loving pet parents, we often want to share our favorite meals and snacks with them. Unfortunately, many human foods that are harmless—or even healthy—for us can be highly toxic to dogs and cats. Understanding which foods are dangerous is essential for protecting your pet’s health and avoiding preventable emergencies.

At North Care Animal Hospital in North Vancouver and West Vancouver, we frequently see cases of food poisoning in pets. In this article, we’ll explain why certain foods are harmful, list the most dangerous human foods for cats and dogs, and provide practical guidance on what to do if your pet eats something toxic.


Why Human Foods Can Be Dangerous for Pets

The digestive systems of dogs and cats are very different from ours. While humans can metabolize complex compounds, pets often lack the specific enzymes or liver pathways to break down certain foods. For example:

  • Theobromine in chocolate cannot be efficiently metabolized by dogs, leading to toxicity.

  • Allium compounds in onions and garlic damage red blood cells in cats and dogs.

  • Artificial sweeteners like xylitol trigger severe insulin release in dogs, causing life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Even small quantities of these foods can cause vomiting, diarrhea, organ damage, or worse.


The Most Common Human Foods That Poison Dogs and Cats

Below is a comprehensive list of toxic foods, along with the potential health risks.

FoodToxic CompoundEffects on Dogs & CatsSeverity
Chocolate (dark & baking)Theobromine, caffeineVomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, heart arrhythmiasHigh
Grapes & RaisinsUnknown toxinKidney failure, lethargy, decreased appetiteHigh
Onions, Garlic, ChivesThiosulfatesAnemia, weakness, pale gumsHigh
Xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy)Sugar substituteHypoglycemia, seizures, liver failure (dogs)Very High
AlcoholEthanolVomiting, tremors, coma, respiratory failureHigh
Coffee, Tea, Energy DrinksCaffeineHyperactivity, increased heart rate, seizuresHigh
Macadamia NutsUnknown toxinMuscle weakness, tremors, vomitingModerate
AvocadoPersinGI upset, heart congestion (dogs, toxic to birds/rodents too)Moderate
Raw Bread DoughYeast fermentationBloating, alcohol toxicityHigh
Cooked BonesSplinteringGI obstruction, perforationHigh
Dairy (milk, cheese)LactoseDiarrhea, bloating, gasMild–Moderate
Fatty Foods (bacon, fried food)High fatPancreatitis, vomiting, abdominal painModerate
Raw Fish (esp. salmon in BC)Parasites, thiaminaseNeurological issues, thiamine deficiencyModerate
Salt & Salty SnacksSodium toxicityExcessive thirst, seizures, kidney damageHigh
Mushrooms (wild)Varied toxinsNeurological signs, organ failureHigh

Local Considerations in North Vancouver & West Vancouver

Our coastal BC environment introduces unique risks:

  • Wild mushrooms are abundant in the fall. Dogs exploring trails may ingest toxic species.

  • Salmon poisoning disease is a Pacific Northwest concern—caused by parasites in raw salmon, trout, or salamanders.

  • Holiday feasts often lead to pets sneaking turkey bones, gravy, or desserts left unattended.


Symptoms of Food Poisoning in Pets

If your dog or cat eats a dangerous food, you may see:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth

  • Loss of coordination or lethargy

  • Seizures or tremors

  • Increased heart rate or difficulty breathing

  • Abdominal pain, whining, or bloating

Tip: Some toxins (like grapes or onions) cause delayed organ damage, meaning your pet may look fine at first but deteriorate hours later.


What To Do If Your Dog or Cat Eats Toxic Food

  1. Stay Calm, Act Fast – Identify what your pet ate, how much, and when.

  2. Call a Veterinarian Immediately – Time is critical. Early intervention can save lives. Contact our Pet Emergency Services in North Vancouver.

  3. Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Veterinary Guidance – Certain substances (like caustic chemicals) can cause more harm coming back up.

  4. Bring Packaging/Leftovers – This helps your vet assess toxicity levels.

If your pet is in immediate danger, visit our Walk-In Vet Services in North & West Vancouverno appointment needed.


Prevention: Keeping Pets Safe at Home

  • Store food securely: Use sealed containers and keep countertops clear.

  • Educate family & guests: Remind children and visitors not to share food.

  • Train “leave it” commands: Helps prevent accidental ingestion during walks.

  • Pet-proof during holidays: Keep turkey bones, chocolate desserts, and alcohol out of reach.

If you’re busy, our In-Home Veterinary Services provide mobile vet care across North & West Vancouver, ensuring your pet stays safe and healthy year-round.


Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital?


Final Thoughts

Human food is often unsafe for pets, and some ingredients can be life-threatening even in small amounts. By learning the risks and acting quickly in emergencies, you can protect your beloved dog or cat.

At North Care Animal Hospital, we are here for you with walk-in visits, emergency services, and in-home care to keep your pets safe in North Vancouver and West Vancouver.


Contact Us

North Care Animal Hospital
📍 1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
📞 Tel: 604-984-1464
📧 Email: Northcareanimalhospital@gmail.com
🕐 Open 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM