Meals You Can Share with Your Pet During the Holidays
The holiday season is all about love, togetherness, and, of course, delicious food. While you’re enjoying festive meals with family and friends, your furry family members might be looking up at you with those irresistible eyes, begging for a taste. Good news: there are plenty of holiday dishes you can share with your pet without compromising their health. Keep reading to learn about pet-safe holiday meals that can make your celebrations even sweeter!
Pet-Friendly Holiday Ingredients
Not every holiday dish is off-limits for your pets. In fact, many ingredients you already use in your kitchen are safe and nutritious for your furry companions. Plain, cooked turkey is a great example. Skip the seasoning, fatty skin, and bones to keep it safe. Green beans, carrots, and plain sweet potatoes are also pet-friendly and packed with vitamins.
However, avoid using ingredients like garlic, onions, butter, or added sugar, as these can be harmful to pets. When in doubt, it’s best to keep it simple and unseasoned to protect their sensitive stomachs.
Holiday Dishes Pets Will Love
If you’re whipping up holiday classics, here are some ideas for dishes you and your pets can enjoy together:
- Turkey or Chicken: A lean protein source, plain roasted turkey or chicken can be a healthy treat for dogs and cats alike. Just ensure it’s free of seasoning and bones.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Skip the marshmallows and brown sugar, and serve plain mashed sweet potatoes. They're rich in fiber and beta-carotene.
- Steamed Veggies: Whether it’s green beans, carrots, or broccoli, these are safe and nutrient-packed options for pets. Keep them unseasoned for safety.
- Plain Pumpkin: Not just for pies, canned plain pumpkin (not pie filling) is excellent for your pet’s digestion.
Remember to offer small portions to prevent overindulgence, which could lead to tummy troubles.
Foods to Avoid During Holiday Meals
As much as we love spoiling our pets, some holiday staples are no-go zones. Avoid foods like chocolate, alcohol, grapes, raisins, stuffing, and desserts with artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Rich, fatty foods such as buttery mashed potatoes or gravy can also upset your pet’s stomach and lead to more serious health concerns.
Your holiday trash can also be a danger zone for curious pets, so make sure leftovers and scraps are securely disposed of.
Create a Special Pet Holiday Plate
To include your pet in the festivities, consider creating a mini holiday plate just for them. Use pet-safe ingredients from your meal and serve it as a special treat. It’s a fun way to make them feel included while ensuring their safety.
For an extra festive touch, you can even bake some pet-friendly holiday treats. Recipes with oat flour, peanut butter (unsalted and xylitol-free), and bananas are great for dogs, while cats might love tuna-flavored treats made with whole wheat flour and egg.
Celebrate the Holidays Safely
The holidays are a joyful time, and sharing meals with your pet can make them even more special. Just remember to stick with safe, simple ingredients and consult your vet if you’re unsure about certain foods. At Urbana Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to help keep your furry family members happy and healthy all year round.
If you have questions about what’s safe for your pet to eat or need help planning a pet-friendly holiday, contact us at (937) 653-7326 or visit us at 985 Norwood Ave,Urbana, OH 43078! Our team is here to support you and your pets this season. Schedule a consultation today at Urbana Veterinary Clinic.
