A treat here, a snack there -- when indulging our pets, the temptation to slip them tiny morsels of food from the table can be stronger then the fact we know we shouldn’t. But believe it or not, certain human foods can be dangerous to pets, so keep them safe by resisting the temptation to give your best friend anything other than food that is specifically formulated for their species.

Chocolate – Not a sweet way to go. The dangers of chocolate for pets have been well-documented, and an increasing number of pet owners know about this big no-no. Even in small quantities, chocolate can be fatal to both dogs and cats, so even if your pet has consumed a tiny amount, this is cause for alarm.

To make sure you pet is safe, "pet-proof" your home to make sure that any candy bowls and other tasty human treats are out-of-reach and securely put away.  Even a crafty smaller pet can find a way to get to the potentially toxic treats when they know where they are.  If you live in a home with especially curious and crafty animals, you might consider investing in locking cabinets and a locking garbage can to avoid any late night raids on leftovers.

Easy on the Fat. That wonderful pungent aroma of cooking meat will attract any pet into the kitchen like a magnet. But pet owners should think twice before indulging whimpers and meows. Foods high in fat, such as cheeseburgers and French fries, can be as bad for pets over time as they are for humans.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, snacks such as these scrumptious scraps, or any other human food with a high fat content, like gravy or hamburger, can lead to life-threatening conditions such as pancreatitis.

Grapes..?  NOT. Although many dogs seek out grapes and raisins for a natural treat, both foods have been linked to kidney problems, even renal failure. Even small amounts can cause serious reactions in animals, so keep your pets away from grapes and raisins.

Onions are not worth crying over. The dangers posed to pets by onions are not as well-known. The reactions that onions cause can be just as severe. In any form, onions can lead to anemia in both cats and dogs, so do not feed your pets any leftovers or scraps that contain even tiny bits of this food.


The Healthy Alternatives… If you cannot resist the temptation to indulge your pet with food from your own plate, consider options that are not only safe for your pet, but also provide health benefits. Foods like brown rice, lean chicken breasts, and oatmeal can help your pet maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related complications such as joint problems, cancer, and kidney failure. Sweet potatoes are a vitamin-rich, safe alternative when your pet is begging to eat just a little taste of "whatever you're having."

Information provided by QPet Supplies .  Visit us to see more information.