Does an Apple a Day Keep the Vet Away? Harmful vs Healthy Foods for Pets
Some foods that are safe for people are not safe for pets. While some food items can be given in moderation as a healthy, low calorie snack, others can be toxic. Read on to learn more about foods you could try and those to avoid!
Healthy Human Foods
Since dogs and cats should have no more than 10% of their daily calories come from treats or snacks outside their main diet, vegetables and fruits can be a great way to provide low calorie and healthy options for your pet. Here are some healthy options with their calorie amounts.
Fruit Options
Apples: 1/2 cup chopped = 30 calories
Bananas: 1/4 cup banana = 34 calories
Cantaloupe: 1/2 cup, diced = 27 calories
Strawberries: 1/4 pint strawberries = 29 calories
Blueberries: 1/4 cup or about 25 berries = 20 calories
Watermelon: 2 melon balls = 10 calories
Honeydew melon: 2 melon balls = 10 calories
Vegetable Options
Carrots: 1/2 cup chopped or slices = 25 calories
Baby carrots: 1 baby carrot = 5 calories
Green beans: 1 cup of 1/2 inch pieces = 30 calories
Sweet red peppers: 1/2 cup chopped = 23 calories
Broccoli: 1 cup chopped or diced = 30 calories
Tomatoes: 1 cherry tomato = 3 calories
Green peas: 1/4 cup green peas = 30 calories
Zucchini: 1/4 cup slices = 7 calories
Celery stalks: 1 stalk = 7 calories
Cucumber: 1/2 cup slices = 8 calories
Asparagus: 1/4 cup or 3 spears = 10 calories
Low Fat Meat Options
Cooked ground turkey (99% fat free): 1/2 ounce (14 grams) serving = 15 calories
Baked chicken breast: 1/2 ounce (14 grams) serving = 14 calories
Harmful Human Foods
Many foods are very high in calories or salt, which your pet may not be able to tolerate. Other foods are simply utilized differently and can be toxic to pets. Here are foods that it’s better to avoid:
Toxic Foods for Pets
Macadamia nuts
Garlic
Onions/Chives
Grapes
Raisins
Chocolate
Xylitol (in most sugar-free gum and other products)
High Salt Foods to Avoid (if your pet has a heart condition or otherwise should have lower salt)
Deli meats
Cheeses
Most bread products
Potato chips
Fast food
Always check with your veterinarian to make sure you know what foods are ok for your specific pet, especially if they have any medical conditions. Happy Snacking!