Thanksgiving signalled the start of the official holiday season … and those delicious seasonal dinners. Of course, once you start cooking, your furry bestie will pay close attention. Our animal buddies are always quite interested in what we are eating or cooking. So, why not make something for your pet? While there are many things that are unsafe, there are also many things that you can make or share. Continue reading for more insight from a local Jensen Beach, FL veterinarian.

What Foods Can You Make for Your Pet?

Every animal is unique, so see your veterinarian for particular recommendations. Your pet’s food requirements may also change as they age and/or their health conditions change. For example, you wouldn’t give fish to a cat with thyroid problems, since the iodine would be harmful to her.

Having said that, most forms of meat, fish, or poultry are OK to dogs and cats as long as they are boiled and unseasoned. You’ll also need to remove the skin, bones, and fat. Cooked bones become brittle and can break into sharp bits that are extremely harmful for your pet to swallow.

However, there are a few limitations here. Organ meat, such as liver and kidney, should only be offered once in a while, as too much can lead to Vitamin A poisoning.

Meats that are heavy in salt or fat, such as bacon and sausage, should also be avoided. (Sorry, Fido!)

Keep in mind that your pet’s food shouldn’t only contain meat. Even hypercarnivores receive residues of other meals from their prey. A healthy diet should include the proper ratios of fat, protein, and water, as well as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

What Fruits and Veggies Can Dogs Eat?

Fido can also eat some fruits and vegetables. In fact, many are just as good for dogs as they are for people. Below is a sample list of some of the safe ones:

• Apples
• Bananas
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Cantaloupe
• Carrots
• Cranberries
• Cucumber
• Kiwis
• Mangoes
• Oranges
• Peas 
• Pears
• Pineapple
• Pumpkin
• Raspberries
• Spinach
• Strawberries
• Sweet potatoes
• Watermelon

Before offering your pet fruits or vegetables, always remove the seeds and pips. Some may have to be chopped into little bits or shredded. Ask your vet for more information. 

What Other Foods Can Fido Have?

You may also choose to incorporate other ingredients, such as dairy, into your furry pal’s menu. Cheese, eggs, plain yogurt, and cottage cheese are some of the foods that are safe for dogs and cats. However, these should be provided in small amounts. 

For further information on safe and harmful diets, consult with your veterinarian.

How Should I Choose Recipes for My Pet?

There are numerous recipes for your canine companion available online. However, these are not universally applicable. What is appropriate for a St. Bernard will not be right for a Chihuahua! We strongly advise you to consult with your veterinarian to gain a comprehensive understanding of your pet’s nutritional requirements.

However, the ingredients will make or break any particular recipe. In general, you’d want something that is meat-based. Fluffy and Fido’s diets should be primarily composed of cooked, unseasoned meat, fish, or fowl. Of course, you will need to remove the skin, bones, and fat. The meat can be shredded if desired. There may also be recipes that call for tinned or deli meat. That is good, but bear in mind that processed foods may be higher in salt than whole foods.

Stick to those recommended by veterinarians or other credible sources. You may come across some appealing ones touted by influencers, but it’s important to ensure that they pass inspection with your veterinarian.

What Foods Aren’t Safe for Dogs?

Many foods are harmful to our four-legged pals. 

Garlic, onions, chives, and scallions are all hazardous. (Note: Anything and everything with a bulb should be considered poisonous to your pet.) Other dangerous foods include chocolate, alcohol, pitted fruits, nuts, caffeine, and grapes, currants, or raisins. Raw meat, bread, and yeast, as well as meat on the bone, are all on the no-no list as well.

Certain foods are only safe in limited quantities. This category includes organ meats, such as liver and kidney, as previously stated. Broccoli and cauliflower also fall within this group since they can cause gas.

Ask your veterinarian for further information on your pet’s diet and care requirements.

Can I Make Homemade Dog Treats?

If we could ask Fido what his absolute favorite things are, it’s probably safe to assume that snacks would be at—or near—the top of the list. Treats are not only fantastic for bonding, but they also aid in training, making Fido and Fluffy feel protected and loved, and just brightening up their day.

There are an abundance of recipes available online. All of these begin with some form of base. Natural peanut butter, olive or wheat germ oil, cheese, bacon bits, whole-wheat flour, eggs, liver powder, oatmeal, ripe bananas, and pureed pumpkin are a few options. You can also substitute minced beef, plain yogurt, or sodium-free broth. Many varieties of baby food are also acceptable, but you should check the label to ensure that it does not include any harmful ingredients, such as raisins, garlic, or onions. You can also experiment with various combinations.

You can then personalize your pet’s snack options. Add tail-waggers like shredded deli meat, kibble, bacon bits, eggs, and, of course, cheese. Certain fruits and vegetables are also beneficial to dogs. Just be sure to stick with safe options. Ask your Jensen Beach, FL vet for more information. 

Schedule an Appointment at Our Jensen Beach, FL Pet Clinic

Have any queries about your pet’s diet or care? Contact us today, your local Jensen Beach, FL pet hospital!