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.
Food | Toxic Compound | Effects on Dogs & Cats | Severity |
---|---|---|---|
Chocolate (dark & baking) | Theobromine, caffeine | Vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, heart arrhythmias | High |
Grapes & Raisins | Unknown toxin | Kidney failure, lethargy, decreased appetite | High |
Onions, Garlic, Chives | Thiosulfates | Anemia, weakness, pale gums | High |
Xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy) | Sugar substitute | Hypoglycemia, seizures, liver failure (dogs) | Very High |
Alcohol | Ethanol | Vomiting, tremors, coma, respiratory failure | High |
Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks | Caffeine | Hyperactivity, increased heart rate, seizures | High |
Macadamia Nuts | Unknown toxin | Muscle weakness, tremors, vomiting | Moderate |
Avocado | Persin | GI upset, heart congestion (dogs, toxic to birds/rodents too) | Moderate |
Raw Bread Dough | Yeast fermentation | Bloating, alcohol toxicity | High |
Cooked Bones | Splintering | GI obstruction, perforation | High |
Dairy (milk, cheese) | Lactose | Diarrhea, bloating, gas | Mild–Moderate |
Fatty Foods (bacon, fried food) | High fat | Pancreatitis, vomiting, abdominal pain | Moderate |
Raw Fish (esp. salmon in BC) | Parasites, thiaminase | Neurological issues, thiamine deficiency | Moderate |
Salt & Salty Snacks | Sodium toxicity | Excessive thirst, seizures, kidney damage | High |
Mushrooms (wild) | Varied toxins | Neurological signs, organ failure | High |
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
Stay Calm, Act Fast – Identify what your pet ate, how much, and when.
Call a Veterinarian Immediately – Time is critical. Early intervention can save lives. Contact our Pet Emergency Services in North Vancouver.
Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Veterinary Guidance – Certain substances (like caustic chemicals) can cause more harm coming back up.
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 Vancouver—no 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?
Expert team: Led by Dr. Ali Sadaghdar and Dr. Farhang Farhadi, our veterinarians bring years of experience in toxicology and emergency medicine.
Convenient locations: Visit our Animal Hospital in North Vancouver or West Vancouver Animal Hospital.
Comprehensive services: From routine checkups to 24/7 emergencies, we are here when your pets need us most.
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