When your pet is behaving well, it is always nice to give them a little extra treat for many people that may mean giving them some of the food right off your plate. However, while most people are aware that certain foods like chocolate can be dangerous for your dog or cat, other foods out there that most of us humans love can also be problematic for your pet to eat. Some of which are common fruits and vegetables. So to help you know which of these to avoid, this article will give you a list of fruits and vegetables that are harmful to your pet.
Contents
Cherries
There are numerous varieties of cherries, all of which are quite popular yummy snacks! However, while the fruit itself can be eaten by your pet, the plant and pit are harmful. They can induce respiratory failure and death in dogs. The reason cherry pits and the plants themselves are so toxic is that they include hydrogen cyanide, which is poisonous to most pets. So if you’re going to share the cherry pulp with your dog, be sure to keep them away from the pits.
Rhubarb
This tart and tangy vegetable is a favorite in pies and smoothies, but it’s actually quite harmful to pets. The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain oxalic acid, which can cause kidney failure and death in dogs and cats. If your pet happens to eat any part of the rhubarb plant, be sure to call your veterinarian right away. You should also be aware that the stalks of the rhubarb plant can also be harmful. So, it is best to keep your pet away from this vegetable altogether.
Tomatoes
This popular fruit is a member of the nightshade family, which also includes deadly plants like belladonna and tobacco. While the tomato fruit itself is not poisonous, the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit can be. These plant parts contain alkaloids and glycoalkaloids, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Suppose your pet happens to eat any of these parts of the tomato plant. In that case, they could experience vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and even seizures.
Avocados
This creamy and delicious fruit is a favorite among many, but it’s not safe for your pet. The avocado pit contains a toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats. In addition, avocados also contain latex, which can cause an allergic reaction in some pets. So if your pet happens to eat an avocado, especially the pit, be sure to call your veterinarian and watch for any symptoms of poisoning.
Grapes
This sweet and juicy fruit is a popular snack, but it’s not safe for pets. Grapes contain a toxin that can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. If your pet eats just one grape, they could experience vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. If your pet eats several grapes, they could experience more severe symptoms like seizures and coma. So if you’re going to give your pet a snack, be sure it’s not a grape!
Potatoes
This starchy vegetable is a favorite among many, but it’s not safe for pets. Potatoes contain a toxin called solanine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even paralysis in dogs and cats. In addition, potatoes also have a compound called glycoalkaloid, which is toxic to pets. So if you’re going to give your pet a potato snack, be sure to remove the skin and make sure it’s cooked properly.
Onions
This popular vegetable is not safe for pets. Onions contain a toxin called thiosulphate, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even anemia in dogs and cats. Like potatoes, onions also contain a glycoalkaloid compound. Symptoms of glycoalkaloid poisoning include muscle tremors, seizures, and death. Raw onions are typically more harmful than cooked onions for your furry friend. However, it’s best to avoid feeding them to your pet altogether.
Mushrooms
While cultivated mushrooms are safe, wild mushrooms might be quite poisonous to your pet. There are many different types of mushrooms, some of which can cause liver damage, kidney failure, or even death in pets. Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has eaten a wild mushroom. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on your pet when they are outside in case they decide to explore and eat a mushroom from the ground.
Broccoli
Believe it or not, broccoli is actually harmful to dogs. This vegetable contains a compound called isothiocyanate, which can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. In addition, if your dog eats broccoli, you might notice them having an increased amount of gas and stool production. While not as toxic as some of the other fruits and vegetables on this list, broccoli is still best avoided.
Citrus Fruits
One of the most common types of fruit that are harmful to pets is citrus. Citrus fruits contain citric acid, which can cause stomach pain and vomiting in pets. In addition, the high sugar content of citrus fruits can lead to episodes of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in pets. Some of the worst citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruits, and tangelos. If you are enjoying one of these sweet treats, it’s best to avoid sharing it with your furry friend.
Asparagus
This green and healthy vegetable might be good for you, but it’s not good for your pet. Asparagus contains a compound called mercaptan, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats. Asparagus also contains high levels of fiber, which can lead to constipation in pets. So if you’re going to give your pet asparagus, make sure it’s cooked properly and only in moderation. Undercooked asparagus can be very difficult for animals to chew and process through their bodies.
Conclusion
So as you can see, there are quite a few fruits and vegetables that are harmful to pets. It’s essential to be aware of these dangers and take steps to avoid them. If your pet does happen to eat one of these toxic foods, be sure to call your veterinarian right away. With early diagnosis and treatment, most cases of pet food poisoning can be resolved quickly and without any long-term problems.
