Is Giving Human Food OK?
Most pet owners have been there — your dog gives you the “puppy eyes” during dinner, or your cat paws at your plate like the meal should be theirs. Sharing food feels harmless, even loving. But is giving human food actually safe for pets?
The answer: sometimes yes, sometimes absolutely not.
Here’s what you need to know before handing over a bite from your plate.
The Truth About Feeding Pets Human Food
Some human foods are safe in moderation, but many can cause digestive upset, long-term health issues, or even life-threatening toxicity. Pets metabolize foods differently than humans, and ingredients that seem harmless to us may be dangerous for them.
Many emergency veterinary visits around the holidays are related to pets eating human foods that are toxic, high-fat, or simply too rich for their stomachs. So while sharing food may be tempting, it must be done carefully and intentionally.
Safe Human Foods (In Moderation)
These human foods are generally safe for most dogs and cats when given in small amounts:
Fruits & Vegetables
Carrots
Green beans
Blueberries
Bananas
Apples (without seeds)
Cucumbers
Pumpkin (plain, cooked)
Protein Options
Plain cooked chicken or turkey
Plain cooked salmon
Lean beef (unseasoned)
Eggs (cooked—never raw)
Healthy Carbs
Plain rice
Plain oatmeal
Plain potatoes (fully cooked)
Important: Human foods should never replace a balanced pet diet. Use them as occasional treats, not daily staples.
Foods That Are Not Safe for Pets
Many common ingredients in human meals can be toxic or harmful for pets. Always avoid giving:
Toxic Foods
Grapes and raisins — cause kidney failure
Onions, garlic, chives — can cause anemia
Xylitol (sweetener) — extremely dangerous; causes liver failure and low blood sugar
Chocolate — toxic to both dogs and cats
Alcohol — even small amounts can be deadly
Foods That Cause Illness
Fatty foods (bacon, skin, fried foods) — pancreatitis risk
Bones (especially cooked bones) — can splinter and cause blockage
Seasoned meats — spices, salt, and sauces can upset the GI tract
Dairy — many pets are lactose intolerant
Raw dough — can expand in the stomach and cause alcohol toxicity
Even healthy foods can become unsafe if they’re salted, seasoned, buttered, or cooked with onions or garlic.
Why Human Food Can Be Risky
1. Digestive Upset
Human foods often cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
2. Pancreatitis
Fatty leftovers—like turkey skin, ham, or gravy—are a leading cause of pancreatitis in dogs, which can be serious or fatal.
3. Weight Gain & Obesity
Table scraps add unnecessary calories and contribute to long-term health issues including diabetes and heart disease.
4. Toxicity Risks
Even one grape or a tiny amount of xylitol can cause a medical emergency.
5. Behavior Problems
Pets who regularly receive table scraps may beg, steal food, and show food-guarding behaviors.
How to Safely Share Human Food (If You Choose To)
If you want to offer human food occasionally, keep these guidelines in mind:
Stick to plain, cooked meats or safe fruits/veggies
Avoid spices, oils, and sauces
Give tiny portions (the size of a pea or small treat)
Use human food as training treats sparingly
Avoid feeding from the table to reduce begging
Introduce only one new food at a time
If your pet has pancreatitis, allergies, obesity, or is on a prescription diet—avoid human food entirely.
Holiday Tip for Pawsh Clients
Most holiday emergencies come from pets eating rich or toxic foods. Keep plates out of reach, secure trash cans, and politely ask guests not to feed pets.
At Pawsh, we’re always happy to help you determine which foods your pet can safely enjoy.
When to Call a Veterinarian
Seek immediate care if your pet shows:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Drooling
Tremors
Lethargy
Pale gums
Distended abdomen
Weakness or collapse
Or if your pet ate a known toxin—acting quickly saves lives.
Final Thoughts
Sharing human food with pets is a loving gesture — but it must be done safely. Many “people foods” can be harmless treats, while others can lead to dangerous or even life-threatening reactions. When in doubt, keep human food away and stick to vet-approved pet treats.
If you ever have questions about diet, safe foods, or nutrition, the Pawsh Veterinary Clinic team is here to help.
Sources
American Veterinary Medical Association — Poisonous Foods for Pets
https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/poisonous-foods-petsASPCA Animal Poison Control — Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
