The Hidden Dangers of Feeding Pets Thanksgiving Leftovers
Thanksgiving is all about good food and sharing it with the people we love—and for many of us, that includes our pets. When those big eyes stare up from under the table, it’s almost impossible not to slip them a bite of turkey or mashed potatoes. But while it feels harmless, many Thanksgiving leftovers can actually cause serious health issues for dogs and cats.
Here’s what pet parents should know before offering their furry friends a holiday treat.
1. Turkey Isn’t Always Safe
Plain, cooked turkey meat without skin or seasoning is usually okay in small amounts. The problem? Most Thanksgiving turkey is loaded with butter, herbs, salt, garlic, and onion—ingredients that can irritate the stomach or, worse, be toxic.
And absolutely no cooked bones. Turkey bones splinter easily and can cause choking, intestinal blockages, or life-threatening tears in the digestive tract.
2. Fatty Foods Can Trigger Pancreatitis
Gravy, buttery mashed potatoes, turkey skin, stuffing, mac and cheese—if it’s rich and delicious to you, it’s risky for your pet. High-fat foods can lead to pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that often lands pets in the ER. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, hunched posture, and loss of appetite.
3. Onions, Garlic, and Leeks Are Toxic
These common ingredients show up in stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, and more. Even a small amount can damage red blood cells in dogs and cats, leading to anemia. Signs may not show up for several days, making it even more dangerous.
4. Beware the Sweet Stuff
Many desserts contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener extremely toxic to dogs. Even tiny amounts can cause liver failure or life-threatening drops in blood sugar. And while pumpkin itself is pet-safe, pumpkin pie is full of sugar, spices, and dairy—not ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs.
5. Yeast Dough Can Be a Medical Emergency
If you’re baking fresh rolls or bread, keep the dough far from curious paws. Raw yeast dough rises in the stomach, causing severe bloating and producing alcohol that can lead to poisoning.
6. Trash Raids Are a Post-Holiday Hazard
Pets love the smells coming from a Thanksgiving trash bag. But inside those bags are cooked bones, string, foil, corn cobs, and spoiled food—all major risks for choking, blockages, or toxic reactions. Use sturdy trash cans and take garbage out promptly after the meal.
Safe Alternatives You Can Share
If you want your pet to feel included, there are safe Thanksgiving options:
Plain turkey breast (no skin, no seasoning)
Steamed green beans
Plain pumpkin purée
Carrot sticks
A small spoonful of plain mashed sweet potato (no butter or spices)
Or, consider preparing a small pet-friendly holiday plate ahead of time.
When in Doubt, Call Your Vet
If your pet gets into the leftovers and shows vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, trembling, or unusual behavior, don’t wait—call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic.
Sharing the holiday with our pets is one of the best parts of the season. With a little caution, you can keep them safe and still make them feel part of the celebration.
