Alcohol is highly toxic to all pets, including cats and dogs. Alcohol can lurk in places beyond the obvious beer or cocktail: Some desserts, like rum cake and tiramisu, are flavored with alcohol, for example. Fermented fruit, including fermented apples, also can contain it.

Alcohol is dangerous for your pets because it can cause dehydration, low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalances and kidney and liver issues.

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in pets: 

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte abnormalities
• Tremors
• Abnormal blood acidity
• Decreased coordination
• CNS depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Liver and kidney problems
• Low blood sugar
• Coma
• Death

Apple seeds are problematic for dogs and cats because they contain cyanide, which is toxic to pets (as it is to humans). However, to suffer ill health effects, your pet would need to ingest a very large quantity of apple seeds.

As such, it’s not worth taking apples off the “occasional healthy treat” list. Just be certain to remove all seeds so your four-legged friend isn’t repeatedly ingesting low levels of cyanide over a span of time.

Signs of cyanide toxicity:

If your pet were to consume a large amount of cyanide, they could die very quickly. However, if they ingest smaller amounts, the following may occur:

• Bright red gums
• Rapid or difficulty breathing
• Excessive salivation
• Convulsions
• Paralysis

While the apricot itself is a great option for an occasional treat, the stems, leaves and pits contain cyanide. If you opt to feed apricot to your pup or cat, take care to throw away the stems, leaves and pits.

The pits are especially dangerous because once broken, they release much greater quantities of cyanide than is contained in the stems and leaves. Some pets may see an apricot pit as a great chew toy, so it’s imperative to ensure they don’t have access.

All parts of avocados–the leaves, fruit, seeds, pit and skin–contain persin, which is a fungicidal toxin. Percin is highly toxic to horses, cattle, goats and birds and can cause severe health issues or even death.

While avocado isn’t as dangerous for dogs and cats in very small quantities, it still poses a risk and is best avoided altogether.

Signs your pet may have ingested persin:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Abnormal fluid accumulation in the chest

Bones aren’t technically toxic, but we’re including them because they’re extremely dangerous. You should never offer your pet the bones from meat you purchase.

Bones from human foods pose a choking hazard, can cause constipation or even a blockage and can be contaminated with bacteria, such as E. coli, Salmonella and Listeria, that can lead to food poisoning.

Note that while you should avoid giving any bones whatsoever to your pets, cooked bones are especially risky. Cooking bones causes them to become brittle, which makes them more likely to splinter. This can result in severe digestive tract injuries.

Signs your pet could have an intestinal blockage/bowel obstruction:

• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Straining when pooping or an inability to poop at all
• Painful reaction to having their abdomen touched
• Restlessness
• Whining

Caffeine is toxic to dogs and cats. When a pet consumes enough caffeine to harm them, caffeine toxicity is usually seen within 30 to 60 minutes. While we all know coffee, tea and soda contain caffeine, other common food items, such as candy and chocolate, can also have this chemical as an ingredient.

Around 9 mg of caffeine per pound of body weight leads to toxicity in dogs; for cats, it takes only 3-4 mg of caffeine per pound of body weight.

Signs of caffeine toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Panting
• Excessive thirst and urination
• Hyperactivity
• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Death

Every part of a cherry other than the fruit flesh itself contains cyanide, which, as we’ve already discussed, is highly toxic to dogs and cats. For this reason, most pet parents skip feeding their pets cherries altogether.

If you do decide to give your furry BFF a small amount of the fruit flesh, be careful not to drop any pits on the floor, where your pet could find them. Also take caution to prevent the stems, seeds or leaves from becoming mixed in with the cherry pieces.

White chocolate, dark chocolate, milk chocolate… This sweet treat is practically a food group for some of us humans. However, for dogs and cats, chocolate is toxic. It contains caffeine, which we know is dangerous, plus theobromine, another chemical that our pets cannot metabolize well.

Both caffeine and theobromine belong to the methylxanthine family. This is important because the amount of methylxanthine varies between the different types of chocolates, and the amount of methylxanthine your pet consumes matters.

The level of toxicity depends on the type of chocolate. Dark chocolate has more caffeine and therefore poses a greater risk of toxicity than milk chocolate. Although white chocolate contains trace amounts of theobromine, it’s generally considered less toxic.

In the unfortunate event that your pet eats chocolate, you can use the dog chocolate toxicity calculator or cat chocolate toxicity calculator to gauge the potential harm. (Note that regardless of the calculations, it is still advisable to contact your vet if your pet consumes chocolate.)

Signs of chocolate toxicity:

• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst
• Excessive urination
• Panting
• Restlessness
• Elevated heart rate
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures

It’s a staple for adding flavor to human food, but garlic is on the no-go list for cats and dogs. It contains thiosulfate, which can damage your pet’s red blood cells.

Signs of garlic toxicity:

• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Panting
• Drooling
• Weakness

It took years to pinpoint the reason, but we finally know what component of grapes and raisins is toxic to dogs: tartaric acid. Ingesting grapes and raisins can cause your pet to experience kidney damage or even kidney failure.

Remember that grapes and raisins are often included in baked goods and snacks, like cookies and trail mix. Furthermore, grape juice or grape-based products can lead to toxicity.

Signs of grape toxicity:

• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Dehydration
• Increased thirst
• Tremors

This home brewing ingredient is toxic to both dogs and cats. It can cause a condition called malignant hyperthermia, where the body cannot regulate temperature, causing it to increase drastically. This can lead to seizures and death.

Signs of hops ingestion:

• Vomiting
• Panting
• Overheating
• Restlessness and agitation
• Elevated heart rate
• Tremors
• Seizures

Mycotoxins are substances that can grow on spoiled food such as bread, nuts and dairy products. Common mycotoxins that can grow on moldy food and are known to be particularly toxic to animals include aflatoxins, ochratoxins and trichothecenes.

Make sure to dispose of all old food in a trash bin that your pets cannot access.

Signs of mycotoxin poisoning:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures
• Elevated body temperature

While store-bought mushrooms are generally safe for dogs and cats, certain varieties of mushrooms that grow in the wild can be highly toxic. Mushroom poisoning can lead to severe illness and even death.

Symptoms of mushroom toxicity:

Signs of mushroom toxicity vary depending on the type of mushroom your pet has eaten. Additionally, some mushrooms will make your pet sick almost immediately, while others can take up to 12 hours to affect them.

Generally, look out for the following signs of mushroom toxicity:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Excessive salivation/drooling
• Lethargy
• Loss of balance
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or gums and skin
• Loss of motor control
• Seizures
• Collapse

Mustard seeds, a component of this common condiment, are toxic to dogs and cats. Some of the chemical compounds mustard seeds contain can cause a cat or dog to develop severe gastroenteritis.

Signs of mustard poisoning:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Respiratory distress
• Lethargy
• Swollen face or hives
• Pale gums

We all know that smoking cigarettes or using vape pens poses health risks to us humans, but it’s important to be aware that consuming nicotine can be lethal for dogs and cats. Our four-legged friends’ nervous systems cannot process nicotine well and, therefore, they can end up with nicotine poisoning.

Sign of nicotine toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Labored breathing
• Weakness
• Collapse
• Tremors
• Twitching
• Elevated heart rate

A compound called juglone, found in walnuts and pecans, is toxic to dogs.

Almonds contain amygdalin, which can break down into hydrogen cyanide when ingested. It’s toxic to both dogs and cats. Furthermore, almonds are difficult to digest and can lead to stomach upset and pancreatitis.

None of these nuts—walnuts, pecans or almonds—are toxic to cats. However, they present choking hazards and can cause gastrointestinal upset and should be avoided entirely.

Macadamia nuts are toxic to both dogs and cats.

Be aware of chocolate-covered nuts as well as salted nuts. As noted above, chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats alike. Additionally, too much salt can cause sodium ion poisoning, which can result in neurological issues and other health problems.

Signs of macadamia nut toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Oral irritation
• Weakness
• Overheating
• Salivation
• Panting
• Labored breathing
• Slower heart rate
• Elevated heart rate
• Shaking or tremors

Onions contain N-propyl disulfide, a compound that is highly toxic to dogs and cats. Toxicity causes the red blood cells to break down, which can lead to anemia.

Onion powder is an ingredient in a surprising number of foods. Be sure to read the ingredient list before offering your pet any human food.

Note that all onions are toxic to dogs and cats, including red, white and yellow onions. Additionally, they remain toxic in any form: Cooked onions, dehydrated onions and sauces that contain onions are toxic to dogs and cats.

Signs of onion toxicity:

• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Panting
• Elevated heart rate
• Pale gums
• Fainting
• Reddish urine

As with cherries, every part of peaches other than the fruit flesh contains cyanide, which is toxic to dogs and cats, and the pits can pose a choking hazard. Additionally, the flesh of the peach can cause gastrointestinal issues in cats.

Again, note that while the stems and leaves do contain cyanide, the highest concentration is in the peach pit. Cyanide is released when the pit is broken, so a pet chewing on a pit is very dangerous.

Some vets may consider the flesh of a plum acceptable for cats and dogs in small quantities, but it’s worth noting that plums are higher in sugar than peaches and may not be the best choice for some pets. Many vets recommend against feeding plums to your cats and dogs entirely.

More importantly, as with other stone fruits, plum pits present a choking hazard and contain cyanide, which is toxic to both cats and dogs.

While raw and frozen pet foods can be great meal options for your dog or cat, raw or undercooked foods meant to be cooked and consumed by humans, like your thawing hamburger meat, can contain bacteria that causes food poisoning, such as Salmonella and E. coli.

Meat stored in the temperature danger zone of 40°F to 140°F becomes a bacteria breeding ground, posing a risk to both pets and humans. Not only can these bacteria make your dog or cat sick, but your four-legged friend can pass them to you or your family members.

Symptoms of bacterial infections in pets:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Bloody stool

The leaves of these spring vegetables contain a high concentration of oxalic acid, and the stalks contain lower amounts.

To get technical, if your dog or cat eats rhubarb leaves or enough rhubarb stalks, the oxalic acid binds with calcium in the bloodstream, leading to the formation of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.

Unfortunately, these crystals can accumulate in the kidneys and other organs, leading to organ damage and other life-threatening conditions.

Signs of rhubarb poisoning:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Tremors
• Bloody urine
• Changes in thirst and urination

Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol that’s often used to sweeten sugar-free gum and candy. It can also be found in baked goods, breath mints, dietary supplements, toothpaste and some peanut and nut butters.

Xylitol is toxic for dogs because it is absorbed into their bloodstream very quickly. This causes their body to release high levels of insulin, which leads to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), a condition that can be fatal. Additionally, xylitol can cause liver failure.

Cat parents can breathe a little easier, as xylitol isn’t toxic to our feline friends. However, cats shouldn’t consume most of the items that contain xylitol for other reasons.

Signs of xylitol toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Symptoms of low blood sugar, including weakness, decreased activity, staggering, lack of coordination, collapse and seizures.

If your pet ingests yeast dough, it can expand in their stomach—basically in the same way it would continue rising in the fridge.

Yeast dough can cause a buildup of gas, resulting in bloat, which is a potentially life-threatening emergency. When a pet experiences bloat, their stomach rapidly expands with gas and fluid. Not only can it be extremely painful for your pet, but bloat may result in gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a dangerous condition where the stomach distends and may twist, leading to severe discomfort or even death.

Additionally, yeast ferments and produces alcohol, which can be absorbed into your pet’s system. If this happens, you may see signs of alcohol toxicity, which are listed above.

Keep in mind that even small quantities of yeast dough can potentially jeopardize your dog’s well-being. When baking bread or any yeast-based items, remember that dogs and cats are naturally inquisitive, and they may be enticed to grab a piece of dough that’s within reach.

If you suspect that your dog or cat has ingested a toxic food, immediate action is crucial. Dr. Ochoa offers the following advice.

First, do your best to identify the toxic substance your pet ate.

Next, if there’s any toxic food remaining that your pet hasn’t yet eaten, remove it to prevent further ingestion. 

Finally, contact a vet ASAP and provide them with as much information as possible. This includes details about the substance your pet ingested, the quantity ingested and your pet’s current condition. “Every minute when dealing with potential toxicity can make a difference,” she emphasizes. 

Note that Dr. Ochoa strongly advises against trying home remedies unless your vet tells you to do so. “Sometimes, actions such as forcing the pet to vomit can do more harm than good.”

Signs Your Dog Should Go to the Veterinarian

Remember that different toxic foods can cause different symptoms. However, Dr. Ochoa lists the following nine signs of food toxicity to keep an eye out for so you can act quickly.

1. Vomiting and diarrhea: Vomiting and diarrhea are the body’s way of attempting to eliminate harmful substances. If your dog or cat abruptly begins vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, consider the potential for toxicity.
2. Lethargy and weakness: “When a pet is feeling unwell due to toxicity, they may seem excessively tired, lack energy or have difficulty standing or walking,” Dr. Ochoa explains. “This can be a result of the body trying to cope with the harmful effects.”
3. Loss of appetite: If your dog or cat is experiencing toxicity, they may have a decreased appetite—or none at all. This can be a first sign.
4. Increased thirst and urination: “Certain toxic substances can affect the pet’s kidneys, leading to increased thirst and urination,” Dr. Ochoa says. “Keep an eye out for any changes in their drinking and bathroom habits.”
5. Pale gums and mucous membranes: A dog or cat experiencing toxicity can sometimes have pale or yellowish gums, lips or eyelids.
6. Tremors or seizures: “Some toxic substances can affect the pet’s nervous system, leading to muscle tremors or even seizures,” explains Dr. Ochoa. She notes that it’s imperative to seek immediate veterinary care if you see any unusual twitching or convulsions.
7. Difficulty breathing: Certain toxins have the potential to induce respiratory distress in pets, resulting in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing. “Any difficulty breathing should be treated as an emergency situation,” Dr. Ochoa cautions.
8. Unusual behavior: Is your dog or cat’s behavior suddenly out of the ordinary? Restlessness, agitation or confusion can be signs of toxicity.
9. Increased heart rate: Toxicity can trigger rapid or irregular heartbeats in pets. Keep an eye out for signs like accelerated breathing or an unusually elevated pulse rate.

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center

To get immediate info, you can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

“This helpline serves as a vital resource with trained professionals who can provide immediate guidance and advice on how to handle the situation,” Dr. Ochoa says. “Having expert assistance right at your fingertips can help to ensure proper and prompt treatment for your beloved pet.”

Note that you may be charged a consultation fee.

Do Not Take a Watch-and-Wait Approach

Dr. Ochoa cautions against the watch-and-wait approach if you know your cat or dog has ingested a toxic substance. “Time is of the essence when it comes to addressing potential poisonings, as some substances can quickly cause severe illness or even be fatal,” she says.

To ensure your dog or cat receives necessary treatment and has the best chance of avoiding serious health problems, seek immediate professional help from a veterinarian.