PETS · FOOD SAFETY
Can Dogs and Cats Eat This?
Search a food to see whether it is OK, worth caution or dangerous for your dog or cat, why, and what to do, based on veterinary and government sources.
Check a food
Popular searches
Quick examples
| Food | Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Carrot | OK | OK |
| Cheese | Caution | Caution |
| Grapes | Dangerous | Dangerous |
| Dark chocolate | Dangerous | Dangerous |
| Gum with xylitol | Dangerous | Dangerous |
| Macadamia nuts | Dangerous | Caution |
How foods are rated
- OK: a small, plain portion is fine for a healthy adult pet.
- Caution: not a good treat because of fat, salt, sugar, pits or stomach upset; skip it or give very little.
- Dangerous: can poison or seriously injure your pet. Don’t give it, and call your vet if your pet eats some.
Ratings follow the sources listed with each food. Puppies, kittens and pets with health problems may need stricter limits.
Frequently asked questions
If a food is marked OK, can I give a lot?
No. “OK” means a small, plain portion is fine for a healthy adult pet. Treats should stay a small part of the daily diet; ask your vet about pets with health conditions.
My dog ate a little and seems fine. Do I need to call?
Yes, for anything marked dangerous. Some poisonings, like grapes or xylitol, show signs hours later, and the risk depends on weight, amount and the exact product.
Can dogs and cats drink milk?
Many pets get diarrhea or an upset stomach from the lactose and fat in milk. It is safer to skip it.
Are small amounts of onion or garlic in food a problem?
Yes. The onion family damages red blood cells even when cooked or powdered, so avoid gravies, soups and seasoned leftovers that contain them.
More tools
Sources and last updated
- ASPCA, Sharing Is Caring: Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Pet
- ASPCA, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- Merck Veterinary Manual, Food Hazards
- U.S. FDA, Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet
- U.S. FDA, Paws Off Xylitol; It’s Dangerous for Dogs
- Cornell Feline Health Center, Common Cat Hazards
- WSAVA, Feeding Treats to Your Dog
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