Meals You Can Share with Your Pet During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and fun—and for many pet owners, that includes sharing the feast with our furry friends. However, not all human foods are safe for pets. The good news is, there are plenty of tasty and healthy options you can share with your pets this holiday, so they can enjoy the celebration with you! Let’s dive into some meals that will make your pet’s tail wag this Thanksgiving.
Turkey: A Pet-Friendly Option
Turkey is often the star of the Thanksgiving table, and while it’s a great source of protein for your pet, there are a few things to keep in mind. Always serve your pet turkey without the skin, seasoning, or bones. The skin and seasoning can upset their stomach, and bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and cause serious harm. Plain turkey breast is the best option for your dog or cat—lean, protein-packed, and easy to digest.
Sweet Potatoes: A Delicious Treat
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic and healthy option for pets. They’re full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that help with digestion and overall health. Skip the sugar, butter, and marshmallows commonly found in sweet potato casseroles, and simply serve your pet plain, cooked sweet potatoes. Whether mashed or chopped, this is a great, nutritious addition to your pet’s plate.
Green Beans: A Crunchy Delight
Green beans are another Thanksgiving food your pet can safely enjoy. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, which is great for your pet’s digestion. Be sure to offer them plain and cooked, as green beans in casseroles often contain butter, onions, and garlic, all of which are harmful to pets. If your pet enjoys crunchy snacks, fresh green beans can be a great addition to their holiday spread!
Carrots: A Healthy Side Dish
Carrots are a great vegetable to share with your pets, whether raw or cooked. They’re full of vitamins and are safe for both dogs and cats. The natural sweetness of carrots can be a nice addition to your pet’s meal without worrying about extra sugar or additives. Serve them steamed or raw, cut into small pieces to prevent choking.
Cranberry Sauce: Proceed with Caution
While cranberries themselves are safe for pets in moderation, cranberry sauce should be approached with caution. Most cranberry sauces are packed with sugar and other ingredients like cinnamon or cloves, which can be harmful to pets. If you want to give your pet a little taste of cranberry, make sure it’s plain, unsweetened, and offered in small amounts.
Pumpkin: A Perfect Digestive Aid
Pumpkin is another Thanksgiving favorite that’s great for your pets. Plain, cooked pumpkin (not the spiced pie mix!) is full of fiber, which helps with digestion and can even soothe an upset stomach. It’s especially helpful for pets that may have had a bit too much turkey or other rich foods. Simply scoop a small amount onto their dish, and they’ll love it.
Foods to Avoid
While there are plenty of Thanksgiving foods your pet can safely enjoy, there are some that are no-go’s. Foods like stuffing, mashed potatoes with butter, gravy, and foods containing onions, garlic, or chocolate should always be kept out of reach. These ingredients can cause digestive upset or worse, so it’s important to be mindful of what your pet is eating.
Enjoy the Holidays Together
Thanksgiving is about being thankful for those we love, and that includes our pets. By choosing safe, healthy foods to share, you can make your furry friend feel included in the festivities. Remember, moderation is key, and always keep an eye on your pet to ensure they’re enjoying their holiday meal safely. If you have any concerns about what’s safe to share with your pet, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.
Want to ensure your pet stays healthy this holiday season? Contact us at Express Vets Holly Springs at (678) 402-8717 or visit us at 6244 Holly Springs Parkway Suite D, Holly Springs, GA 30188 for advice on pet-safe foods and how to keep your furry friend feeling their best this Thanksgiving!
