Q: What are some foods that are unsafe for my pets?
A: Here is a list:
Grapes and Raisins: The toxic ingredient is still not known, but some dogs that ingest these will develop kidney failure.
Chocolate: Particularly dark chocolate can cause GI signs, panting, and cardiac irregularities. See merckvetmanual.com/multimedia/clinicalcalculator/chocolate-toxicity-calculator
Raw foods, including meat and milk products: Raw foods are often touted because of wild counterparts eating raw foods. However, these foods can carry dangerous bacteria for both the pets and their owners.
Avocado: The avocado is particularly toxic to birds leading to lung edema and death. For dogs, the pit can cause intestinal obstruction.
Macadamia nuts: In dogs, this nut ingestion can lead to weakness, vomiting, tremors, and elevated temperature.
These are just a few of the potentially dangerous food items.
For a more complete list, go to the L.A. County Veterinary Public Health website: publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/docs/FoodSafetyPet.pdf
By Dr. Frank Lavac, MS, DVM
If you have any questions, you can contact Dr. Lavac at 310-828-4587.
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