If you’re wondering whether dogs and cats can share food, you’re not alone. There are a number of food dietary issues that could make this an unwise decision. Some human foods are bad for animals, while others are dangerous. To avoid this, know your pet’s specific nutritional needs and which foods they’re allowed to eat.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
If your dog or cat has swallowed toxic foods or liquids, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is equipped to help. Its professional staff will ask questions about the type of food or liquid, how much of it your pet has consumed, and other relevant details. They will then determine the best course of treatment.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is staffed by veterinarians and toxicologists who can help you if your pet ingests something toxic. The Center receives over 200,000 calls a year and provides emergency medical care and information. Toxicology experts and veterinarians are on staff 24 hours a day to respond to poisoning incidents and prevent animal suffering.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is the only facility of its kind. It is staffed by 70 veterinarians, including 11 board-certified veterinary toxicologists. The APCC also employs 100 certified veterinary technicians and 13 veterinary assistants. The APCC has an advanced database system called AnTox that helps identify toxins in animals. The database contains more patient data than any other veterinary toxicology medical records system in the world.
Certain types of food can be toxic to dogs and cats. Some common items such as raisins and grapes can cause kidney failure in cats and dogs. These foods may also contain tartaric acid. Also, green tomato portions contain solanine, which can cause excess drooling and digestive problems. However, ripe fruit is generally safe for cats.
According to the APCC, over-the-counter medications are among the leading toxins. They account for nearly 17 percent of all APCC cases. Over-the-counter medications include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and cold and flu medication. These products are often kept hidden in cabinets and hidden areas.
ASPCA
The ASPCA says dogs and cats can share a variety of foods. Although many human foods can be dangerous for your pet, many fruits and vegetables are safe for both. Try to cut up the fruit and vegetables into small pieces and serve them to your pet in small portions. You can serve your pet the fruit and vegetables raw or cooked, but be sure to remove any seeds or stems. Another safe food for your pet is popcorn, as long as it is air-popped and does not have too much butter or salt.
To keep your pet safe, it’s best to supervise their time together. If your dog or cat starts to stare at the door or window, distract them with treats or a happy voice. If they keep staring at the cat, guide them away with their leash and offer them a treat. Repeat this process until your dog or cat does not focus on the cat.
The ASPCA is a nonprofit organization that reaches beyond the lower 48 states. During COVID-19, the ASPCA opened emergency pet food distribution centers in many cities. It provided more than 1,900 tons of food to pets that needed it. The organization reaches out to Alaska Native communities as well, providing assistance to local communities that could not obtain the food for hundreds of dogs and cats.
A new grant program between the ASPCA and three food banks is providing pet owners with an extra way to feed their pets. With the money raised, the food bank network will be able to help two million pet owners affected by COVID-19. These funds will help feed pets with nutritious, fresh food.
While many pets enjoy peanut butter, it should be given in small quantities to prevent any problems. Some brands of peanut butter contain xylitol, which can be harmful to your pet. Moreover, peanut butter contains a lot of fat, so it should be given in small amounts.
