What Thanksgiving food can cats and dogs eat? What to know about giving your pet turkey and more common dishes
While you may want to have your pets take part in the family's Thanksgiving feast, letting dogs and cats eat human food can be challenging. So, are holiday favorites like turkey safe for your cat or dog to eat?
Experts explained what to know before sharing your meal with your feline and canine companions.
Can dogs and cats eat turkey?
It's typically safe for pets to eat skinless and boneless turkey meat.
"It's a great source of protein to support muscle health and lean body condition. Just make sure to avoid the extra
stuffings, seasonings, skin and bones," Dr. Danielle Bernal, a global veterinarian with Wellness Pet Company, told CBS News.
Rich foods like turkey skin, drippings and gravy can cause a lot of problems for your pets, veterinarian Dr. Ruth MacPete told CBS News Los Angeles ahead of last year's holiday.
"Our pets are not used to eating what we eat, and all of the rich fatty food can cause gastrointestinal problems, or worse yet, your pet can end up in the emergency room with a life-threatening pancreatitis. So you really want to avoid feeding them rich, fatty foods," she said.
Can dogs and cats eat cranberry sauce?
Cranberries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, are also safe.
"Just like they do for humans, cranberries can help urinary health and aid in preventing UTIs and bacterial growth in pets," Bernal said.
Can dogs and cats have green beans?
Plain green beans are typically safe, too, along with peas and some other seasonal vegetables.
Butternut squash, for example, can support the immune system and hydration, Bernal said, "as long as they are not roasted with any oils."
Can dogs and cats eat sweet potatoes?
Steamed sweet potatoes, which are rich in vitamins A, B6, C and calcium, can support your dog's digestion with their fiber. They are also safe for cats in moderation.
"Just remember not to give your pet sweet potatoes loaded up with added ingredients that us humans crave at Thanksgiving, such as butter, brown sugar, marshmallows or maple syrup," Bernal said.
Can dogs and cats have mashed potatoes?
Pets can eat mashed potatoes, but not ones with butter and cream like you're likely to have prepared for your human guests.
"Any dish that is simple and unseasoned is a great option," Bernal said.
More common Thanksgiving food cats and dogs can eat
There are a few more Thanksgiving foods our furry family members can take part in, including:
- Canned 100% pumpkin puree
"Pumpkin is known to promote healthy digestion, which aids in the overall energy and vitality of your pet," Bernal said.
- Unsweetened applesauce
- Plain yogurt
- Raw fruits
- Raw veggies
"Raw carrots are a great, low-calorie snack that protects against cataracts and heart disease. Apples provide an excellent
source of pectin, which supports the digestive system," she said.
Common Thanksgiving food that's not safe to feed cats or dogs
What's good for humans, in many cases, are not good options for our pets.
Bernal says to avoid feeding our four-legged friends grapes, raisins, onion and garlic. More foods that aren't safe include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Sweets (such as pies and cookies)
- Chocolates and candies
- Uncooked yeast dough
- Fatty foods
- Prepared foods (such as casseroles, creamed peas, etc.)
- Ham
- Stuffing
MacPete also advises telling your guests not to share what's on their plate, either.
"I know it's tempting, and it is the season of giving, but the problem is, sharing your food with your pets can cause a number of different health problems for your animals," she said.
