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Can my pet eat it?

Type in a food or houseplant and see at a glance whether it is safe, worth caution, or toxic for dogs and cats, with the signs to watch for. Covers 94 foods and 49 common plants. When in doubt, leave it out and call your vet.

โš  If your pet ate something toxic, act now. Call your vet, or in the US the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661 (both may charge a fee). Have the item and rough amount ready. This tool is a guide, not a diagnosis.

African Violet ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic flowering houseplant.

Alcohol ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Even small amounts cause vomiting, disorientation, low body temperature and breathing trouble. Includes raw bread dough and spilled drinks.

Almonds ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not toxic, but almonds are hard to digest and a choking or blockage risk, especially whole. Better skipped.

Aloe Vera ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, lethargy and diarrhea (the gel itself is less of an issue than the outer leaf).

Amaryllis ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, drooling, lethargy and tremors; bulb is most toxic.

Anthurium ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Oral irritation, drooling and difficulty swallowing.

Apple (no seeds or core) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Slices of apple are a safe, crunchy treat - remove the core and seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide compounds.

Apricot (flesh, no pit) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Ripe apricot flesh is safe in small amounts. Always remove the pit, which is a choking hazard and contains cyanide compounds if crushed.

Areca Palm ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic - a safe way to get the palm look. (Not to be confused with toxic Sago Palm.)

Asparagus (cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked asparagus is safe in small pieces. Raw stalks are tough and a choking risk, so cook and chop it.

Asparagus Fern ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Berries cause stomach upset; repeated skin contact can cause irritation.

Avocado ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

The flesh causes mild stomach upset in dogs and cats, and the large pit is a choking and blockage hazard. Far more dangerous to birds.

Azalea / Rhododendron ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, drooling, weakness and heart problems even in small amounts. Emergency.

Bacon ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Very fatty and salty. An occasional tiny bite is not poisonous, but bacon is a common pancreatitis trigger and best kept off the menu.

Banana ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A safe, sweet treat in small amounts for dogs; the sugar means moderation. Non-toxic to cats but rarely a favourite.

Basil, Rosemary & Thyme ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

These kitchen herbs are non-toxic to pets.

Beef (plain cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked lean beef is a safe protein for dogs and cats. Skip fatty cuts and any onion or garlic seasoning.

Beetroot (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked beetroot in small amounts is safe and may turn stools or urine pink, which is harmless. Skip pickled beets.

Begonia ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Tubers most toxic - mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting.

Bell pepper ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Sweet bell pepper (red, yellow or green) is safe and vitamin-rich in small pieces. Skip spicy peppers, which irritate the gut.

Bird's Nest Fern ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic.

Blackberries ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A safe, antioxidant-rich snack for dogs in moderation. Non-toxic to cats.

Blueberries ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A safe, antioxidant-rich treat for dogs, given in moderation. Non-toxic to cats, though most cats are not interested.

Bones (raw, supervised) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Raw bones are a debated topic - they can crack teeth, splinter or cause blockages, and carry bacteria. If you feed them at all, do so under supervision and never cooked bones.

Boston Fern ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic and a popular pet-friendly choice.

Bread (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A little plain baked bread is safe but offers little value - empty calories. Never give raw bread dough, which is dangerous.

Broccoli ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked or raw broccoli in small amounts is safe for dogs. Large amounts can cause gas and stomach upset, so keep it to a garnish.

Bromeliad ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic and colourful.

Brussels sprouts ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked sprouts are safe in small amounts, but they are famously gassy - one or two is plenty for a dog.

Cabbage ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cabbage is safe in small amounts but notoriously gassy in larger ones. A little cooked is easiest on the stomach.

Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Similar to chocolate - restlessness, a racing heart, tremors and seizures. Coffee grounds and tea bags are surprisingly potent.

Caladium ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Burning mouth, drooling, vomiting and swelling.

Calathea / Prayer Plant ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic, pet-friendly foliage.

Cantaloupe & melon (no rind) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Hydrating and safe in small pieces for dogs. Remove the rind and seeds. Non-toxic to cats, who rarely care.

Carrots ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Crunchy raw or cooked carrots are a low-calorie, safe snack for dogs. Cats can have a little cooked, though most are indifferent.

Cashews (plain, unsalted) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A couple of plain, unsalted cashews are safe for dogs. They are fatty, so an occasional one or two only.

Catnip & Cat Grass ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Safe and actually made for cats - a good redirect for plant-chewers.

Cauliflower ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked or raw cauliflower in small amounts is safe for dogs. Large amounts cause gas, so keep it modest.

Celery ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain celery is a safe, low-calorie crunch for dogs. Cut into small pieces to avoid choking; non-toxic to cats.

Cheese ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not toxic, but cheese is high in fat and most adult pets are lactose intolerant, so it often causes gas or loose stools. A tiny cube as a treat at most.

Cherries (flesh only) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

The flesh is not toxic, but cherry pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide compounds and the pits cause blockages. Given the risk, cherries are best avoided.

Chewing gum & mints ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Most sugar-free gum and mints contain xylitol, which is deadly to dogs even in small amounts. Keep bags, pockets and handbags out of reach.

Chocolate ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, restlessness, racing heart, tremors and seizures. Darker chocolate is far more dangerous. Try the chocolate toxicity calculator to gauge the dose.

Christmas Cactus ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic, though the fibrous parts can cause mild upset if gorged on.

Chrysanthemum ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling and skin irritation.

Cinnamon ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Caution

A pinch of cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, but large amounts irritate the mouth and airways. Cats are more sensitive, so best avoided for them.

Coconut flesh & oil ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain coconut flesh or a little coconut oil is safe in small amounts. Large amounts can loosen the stools.

Cooked bones ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not toxic, but cooked bones splinter and can choke or perforate the gut. Skip them - raw feeding is a separate topic with its own rules.

Cooked chicken (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain, boneless, skinless cooked chicken is a safe, gentle protein - often used for upset tummies. No onion, garlic, salt or seasoning.

Cooked plain potato ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain boiled or baked potato with no butter, salt or seasoning is safe in small amounts. Never green, raw or fried potato.

Corn kernels (off the cob) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain corn kernels off the cob are safe in small amounts. Never give the cob itself, which is a serious blockage risk.

Corn on the cob ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

The kernels are fine, but the cob is a classic intestinal blockage that often needs surgery. Never let a dog have the cob.

Cranberries (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain fresh or dried cranberries are safe in small amounts. Skip sweetened or juice blends, and watch that dried mixes contain no raisins.

Croton ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Mouth and stomach irritation if chewed.

Cucumber ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Crunchy, hydrating and very low in calories - a safe treat for dogs. Non-toxic to cats, who may enjoy a nibble.

Currants ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Dried currants carry the same kidney-failure risk as grapes and raisins in dogs. Treat any ingestion as urgent.

Cyclamen ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Roots/tubers most toxic - drooling, vomiting; large amounts affect the heart.

Daffodil (bulbs) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Bulbs are the worst part - vomiting, drooling, and at higher doses heart and breathing trouble.

Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Intense mouth burning and irritation, drooling, difficulty swallowing.

Dracaena ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting (sometimes with blood), drooling; cats may show dilated pupils.

Echeveria & Haworthia (succulents) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

These common succulents are non-toxic (unlike Jade and Aloe).

English Ivy ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Leaves more toxic than berries - vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.

Fatty trimmings & fried food ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Rich, greasy scraps can trigger pancreatitis - vomiting, a painful belly and lethargy. Common after holidays and barbecues.

Figs (fresh) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Fresh fig fruit can irritate the stomach, and the fig plant and leaves are toxic to pets. Keep both fruit and houseplant out of reach.

Ginger (fresh, small) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A small amount of fresh ginger is safe and can settle a queasy stomach. Keep it to a sliver; too much can irritate the gut.

Grapefruit ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

The acidic flesh upsets stomachs and the peel and pith are more irritating still. Citrus is best kept away from both dogs and cats.

Grapes & raisins ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs even in small amounts, and the toxic dose is unpredictable. Vomiting, lethargy and reduced urination. Treat any ingestion as urgent.

Green beans ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked or raw green beans are a safe, filling, low-calorie snack for dogs. No added salt, butter or seasoning.

Ham ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not toxic, but ham is very salty and fatty - it can trigger stomach upset or pancreatitis and adds far too much salt. Best avoided.

Honey ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Caution

A tiny amount of honey is safe for healthy adult dogs but is pure sugar, so rarely and in trace amounts. Little value for cats, who cannot taste sweetness.

Hops (home brewing) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Spent brewing hops cause a dangerous spike in body temperature in dogs. Panting, agitation and a racing heart. An emergency.

Hoya (Wax Plant) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic trailing plant.

Hyacinth (bulbs) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Bulbs cause intense drooling, vomiting and sometimes diarrhea.

Ice cream ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not usually toxic, but the sugar and dairy upset most pets, and some contain xylitol or chocolate, which are dangerous. A pet-safe frozen treat is better.

Jade Plant ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, lethargy and incoordination; reason unknown.

Kalanchoe ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Common houseplant - vomiting and diarrhea, rarely heart rhythm changes.

Kiwi (peeled) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Peeled kiwi flesh in small pieces is safe for dogs in moderation. Skip the skin, which is hard to digest.

Lantana ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Vomiting, diarrhea, and with large amounts, liver effects.

Lettuce ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain lettuce is safe and mostly water. Fine as a crunchy nibble; too much can loosen the stools.

Lily (true lilies: Easter, Tiger, Asiatic, Day) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Deadly to cats - even pollen or vase water can cause fatal kidney failure. A cat near any true lily is an emergency. Milder stomach upset in dogs.

Liver (cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked liver is a nutritious treat in small amounts. Too much over time can cause vitamin A build-up, so keep it occasional.

Macadamia nuts ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Caution

In dogs, cause weakness (especially the back legs), tremors, vomiting and fever within 12 hours. Usually not fatal but distressing.

Mango (no pit or skin) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Soft mango flesh is a safe, sweet treat in small pieces. Remove the large pit, which is a choking and blockage hazard.

Milk & dairy ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Most adult pets are lactose intolerant, so milk, cheese and ice cream often cause gas and diarrhoea. The 'saucer of milk for cats' is a myth.

Money Tree (Pachira) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic.

Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Mouth and throat irritation, drooling, vomiting.

Mushrooms (store-bought, plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain shop-bought culinary mushrooms are safe cooked and unseasoned. Wild mushrooms are a different matter and can be deadly - never allow those.

Mustard ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Prepared mustard and mustard seeds can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting. Keep condiment-covered food away from pets.

Nutmeg ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

In baking amounts it is mostly harmless, but a large dose of nutmeg can cause disorientation and a racing heart. Watch holiday treats.

Oatmeal (plain cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked oatmeal is a safe, fibre-rich treat in moderation. Serve plain with no sugar, milk or flavourings.

Oleander ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Affects the heart - drooling, vomiting, abnormal heart rate. Emergency.

Onion, garlic, chives & leeks ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Damage red blood cells and cause anaemia - cooked, raw or powdered. Cats are especially sensitive. Weakness, pale gums and dark urine, often a day or two later.

Orange (peeled, no seeds) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

A little peeled orange is not toxic to dogs, but the acidity and sugar upset many stomachs. Cats dislike citrus and the oils and peel can irritate them - best skipped.

Parlor Palm ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic and easy-going.

Pasta (plain cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked pasta with no sauce is safe in small amounts. Skip anything with garlic, onion or rich sauce.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Not a true lily, but irritating - burning mouth, drooling, vomiting. (Far less dangerous than true lilies.)

Peanut butter (xylitol-free) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Caution

A dog favourite and safe - but check the label first: some brands contain xylitol, which is deadly to dogs. Cats gain little from it.

Peanuts (plain, unsalted) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A few plain, unsalted, shelled peanuts are safe for dogs. Avoid salted or flavoured nuts; nuts are high in fat, so keep it small.

Pear (no seeds or core) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Ripe pear slices are a safe treat - remove the core and seeds, which contain traces of cyanide compounds.

Peas (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Fresh, frozen or thawed plain peas are a safe, low-calorie snack. Skip tinned peas, which are high in salt.

Peperomia ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic, compact and easy.

Phalaenopsis Orchid ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic - moth orchids are pet-safe.

Philodendron ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Calcium oxalates - mouth irritation, drooling, pawing at the face, vomiting.

Pilea (Chinese Money Plant) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic and easy to propagate.

Pineapple (flesh) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Small pieces of fresh pineapple are safe for dogs; the sugar means moderation. Skip the tough skin and core.

Plain cooked egg ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A fully cooked, plain egg is a safe protein boost in moderation. Avoid raw egg, which risks bacteria and a biotin issue over time.

Plain cooked rice ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain white rice is easy to digest and a staple of bland diets for upset stomachs. Serve plain, with no butter or seasoning.

Poinsettia ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Reputation is overblown - usually just mild drooling or stomach upset.

Polka Dot Plant ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic and pet-friendly.

Pomegranate ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Not toxic, but the seeds and tannins commonly cause stomach upset and vomiting. A few arils are unlikely to harm, but it is easily skipped.

Ponytail Palm ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic.

Popcorn (plain, air-popped) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain air-popped popcorn is a safe occasional snack. Skip butter, salt and any unpopped kernels, which can crack teeth.

Pork (plain cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked pork in moderation is safe. It is fatty, so keep portions small, and never offer seasoned, cured or raw pork.

Pothos (Devil's Ivy) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Very common - oral irritation, drooling and vomiting if chewed.

Pumpkin (plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked or tinned pumpkin (not pie filling) is safe and its fibre can help with mild digestive upsets. A spoonful is plenty.

Raspberries ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Safe for dogs in moderation. They contain a trace of natural xylitol, so keep to a small handful; fine in tiny amounts for cats.

Raw or green potato ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Green or sprouting potato contains solanine, which upsets the stomach. Plain cooked potato in small amounts is fine.

Raw yeast dough ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Rises in the warm stomach, causing painful bloat, and ferments into alcohol. A double danger - call your vet straight away.

Rhubarb ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

The leaves are high in oxalates and toxic, causing drooling, vomiting and, in severe cases, kidney trouble. Keep pets away from the plant and stalks.

Sago Palm ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

All parts, especially seeds, are highly toxic - vomiting, then liver failure. A true emergency for both cats and dogs.

Salmon (cooked, boneless) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Fully cooked, boneless salmon is a safe, omega-rich treat. Never feed raw salmon to dogs - it can carry salmon poisoning disease, which is serious.

Salt & very salty snacks ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Large amounts (crisps, jerky, playdough) cause excessive thirst, vomiting and, in extreme cases, salt poisoning. Keep treats low-salt.

Sardines (in water) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain sardines packed in water are a safe, omega-rich treat in small amounts. Avoid those in brine, oil or sauce.

Schefflera (Umbrella Plant) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting.

Shrimp & prawns (cooked, plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked, shelled shrimp is a safe occasional treat. Remove the shell, tail and vein, and skip anything seasoned or fried.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if eaten.

Spider Plant ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Non-toxic. Cats love to bat at it; overeating any plant can still cause mild tummy upset.

Spinach ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Small amounts of plain spinach are fine for dogs. It is high in oxalates, so go easy, especially with cats or any pet prone to urinary or kidney issues.

Stone-fruit pits (cherry, peach, plum) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

The flesh is usually fine, but pits can block the gut and contain cyanide compounds if crushed. Remove all pits first.

Strawberries ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A safe, vitamin-rich treat in small amounts for dogs. Non-toxic to cats, though the sugar means only a bite or two.

Sweet potato (cooked, plain) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain cooked sweet potato is a safe, fibre-rich treat for dogs. Serve mashed or in cubes with no butter, salt or spices.

Tomato (ripe only) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Ripe red tomato flesh is generally fine in small amounts, but the green parts, stems and leaves of the plant contain solanine and are toxic. Never offer green tomato or the plant.

Tulip (bulbs) ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Concentrated in the bulb - mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting.

Tuna (canned, occasional) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

A little canned-in-water tuna is not toxic, but it is not nutritionally balanced and cats can become hooked on it. Give rarely and in tiny amounts.

Turkey (plain cooked) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain, skinless, boneless cooked turkey is a safe lean protein. No skin, bones, salt, onion or gravy.

Walnuts ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Caution ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Best avoided - walnuts are fatty and, if mouldy, can carry tremorgenic toxins that cause shaking and seizures. Black walnuts are especially risky.

Watermelon (no seeds or rind) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Hydrating and safe for dogs in small pieces - remove the seeds and rind. Non-toxic to cats, who rarely care for it.

Wild mushrooms ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Some garden and woodland mushrooms are deadly and hard to identify. Store-bought culinary mushrooms are fine. If a wild one is eaten, treat as an emergency and bring a sample.

Xylitol (sugar-free sweetener) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Caution

In dogs, tiny amounts trigger a dangerous blood-sugar crash and liver failure. Found in sugar-free gum, sweets, some peanut butters and baked goods. Vomiting, weakness, collapse. An emergency.

Xylitol peanut butter & baked goods ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Caution

Any food sweetened with xylitol (some peanut butters, sugar-free baking, protein bars) can cause a fatal blood-sugar crash and liver failure in dogs. Always read the label.

Yogurt (plain, unsweetened) ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

A spoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt is safe for many dogs. Avoid any with sweeteners, and skip it if your pet is very lactose-sensitive.

Zucchini & courgette ๐Ÿฝ
๐Ÿ• Safe ๐Ÿˆ Safe

Plain zucchini is a safe, low-calorie vegetable for dogs, cooked or raw. Non-toxic to cats.

ZZ Plant ๐Ÿชด
๐Ÿ• Toxic ๐Ÿˆ Toxic

Irritating sap - mouth/stomach irritation; wash hands after handling.

Verdicts follow widely accepted guidance from sources like the ASPCA, kept deliberately cautious: an ingredient marked safe means safe plain and in moderation, not in unlimited amounts or with added salt, sugar, onion, garlic or sweeteners. Caution means small amounts are usually tolerated but it is easily skipped, and toxic means keep it away entirely. Individual pets differ, and this is general information, not veterinary advice. When unsure, ask your vet.

Want more detail? See the full toxic and safe foods guide, the pet-safe plants list, the essential oil safety table, or work out a chocolate dose with the chocolate toxicity calculator.

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