Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, family, and indulgent feasts. While our pets are cherished members of the family, sharing the festivities with them requires extra care. Foods that are safe for humans can pose severe risks to pets, so a little vigilance can go a long way toward ensuring your holiday is joyful and stress-free for everyone.

Understanding the Risks: Beyond Toxic Foods

Most pet owners are familiar with common toxins like chocolate, grapes, and xylitol, but Thanksgiving presents unique dangers that go beyond toxicity. High-fat foods like gravy, turkey skin, butter, and creamy dishes can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes fatal condition.

Pancreatitis and Other Digestive Upsets

Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed after consuming fatty foods. It can result in vomiting, severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and lethargy. In severe cases, pancreatitis can be life-threatening and may require days of hospitalization, costing thousands of dollars.

Even if pancreatitis doesn’t occur, diarrhea for days on end is nothing to be thankful for. A single indulgence, like a tablespoon of gravy or a piece of buttery turkey skin, can upset your pet’s stomach, causing discomfort and inconvenience.

Cooking Areas and Hidden Hazards

Holiday cooking often creates areas of risk, such as countertops with food scraps, dripping pans, and pots of hot oil. If you’re grilling or frying a turkey, make sure pets cannot access drippings or hot oil. These can cause burns, gastrointestinal upset, or worse.

Thanksgiving Do’s: Safe Practices and Pet-Friendly Treats

You don’t have to exclude your pets from the celebration. There are many ways to involve them safely:

Safe Thanksgiving Foods for Pets

  1. Plain turkey meat (cooked, skinless, boneless, and unseasoned)
  2. Steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, and broccoli
  3. Plain mashed pumpkin or sweet potato (no sugar, butter, or spices)

Tips for Safe Treats

  • Serve in moderation: Even safe foods can upset your pet’s stomach if given in large amounts.
  • Avoid human spices: Garlic, onion, and salt can be toxic to pets.
  • Prepare separately: Make a pet-safe plate before seasoning or adding fat to dishes.

Thanksgiving Don’ts: Foods to Keep Away from Pets

The holiday table is laden with temptations that can harm your pet. Here are some of the most dangerous:

Toxic or Dangerous Foods

  • Alliums: Onions, garlic, and chives can cause anemia.
  • Turkey skin and gravy: High-fat content can trigger pancreatitis.
  • Raisins and grapes: Found in many desserts and stuffing, these can cause kidney failure.
  • Chocolate and xylitol: Even a small amount is life-threatening.
  • Bones: Poultry bones can splinter, causing choking or internal injuries.
  • Butter and dairy-heavy dishes: Many pets are lactose intolerant, and high-fat dairy can cause severe digestive upset.

If your pet does eat something they shouldn’t, you can call the team at ASPCA’s Pet Poison Control for guidance. 

Watch Out for Sneaky Pets and Well-Meaning Guests

Prevent Food Theft

Thanksgiving spreads are irresistible to pets, and a counter-surfing dog or a table-hopping cat can easily snatch a dangerous treat. Train pets early to stay off counters, and keep them out of the kitchen while you cook. If training isn’t complete, use baby gates or barriers to prevent access.

Keep an Eye on Guests and Kids

Even well-meaning guests might sneak table scraps to your pets. Educate guests about the risks of high-fat foods and toxic ingredients. Kids are another concern—they may leave plates unattended or run around with food at face level for pets. Designate an adult to supervise children with food, and encourage pet-safe snacks like carrots or plain turkey.

Double-Check the Cooking Area

After the meal, inspect cooking areas for dangers like:

  • Turkey drippings
  • Food spills
  • Hot oil from frying or grilling

Clean up promptly to avoid accidents, and keep pets away from the kitchen until all cooking and cleaning are complete. For more safety tips, check out this Thanksgiving Pet Safety guide from the American Veterinary Medical Association. 

Recognizing Food-Related Emergencies

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Watch for symptoms of food poisoning or pancreatitis, including:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Excessive drooling
  • Lethargy or abdominal pain
  • Restlessness or difficulty standing

These signs require immediate veterinary attention. Keep our contact information handy at Wolf Creek Veterinary Hospital and locate a 24/7 emergency clinic in advance, so you know where you can go no matter the day or time.

Protect Your Pets This Holiday Season

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness. By following these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday with all members of your family, including your pets. From our family at Wolf Creek Veterinary Hospital, have a wonderful Thanksgiving!