Many of our everyday foods can be harmful or even fatal to pets such as cats, dogs and rabbits. While pet owners may be tempted to share their meals with their furry companions, it’s important to understand that animals have different digestive systems and sensitivities.
- Chocolate & Caffeine
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both stimulants that pets metabolise much more slowly than humans. A small amount can cause heart problems, kidney failure and/or seizures. - Grapes & Raisins
For dogs and possibly cats too, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure. The exact toxic substance is still unknown but ingestion – even in small quantities – can lead to serious health issues. Though not commonly offered to rabbits, grapes are high in sugar and could cause gastrointestinal distress. - Onions, Garlic & Chives
These allium vegetables damage red blood cells in cats and dogs, leading to anaemia. Whether raw, cooked, powdered or dehydrated, these vegetables pose a significant risk. While rabbits are less likely to eat these, they still should not be offered, as they can upset the digestive tract. - Dairy Products
Many pets, particularly adult cats and dogs, are lactose intolerant. Milk, cheese and other dairy items can cause stomach upset. Rabbits should also avoid dairy entirely, as their digestive systems are not equipped to process animal-derived products. - High-Sugar & High-Fat Foods
While not always immediately toxic, sugary and fatty foods can lead to obesity, pancreatitis and diabetes in dogs and cats. In rabbits, such foods can disrupt their gut flora and cause gastrointestinal stasis, a life-threatening condition. - Xylitol
This sugar substitute, found in sugar-free gum, baked goods and some peanut butters, is extremely toxic to dogs. It causes a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or death. While its effects on cats and rabbits are less studied, it’s best to assume it’s harmful to them as well. - Iceberg Lettuce & Rhubarb
As leafy foods, you’d imagine these would be ideal for rabbits. However, iceberg lettuce contains lactucarium, which can cause diarrhoea and lethargy. Meanwhile, rhubarb, including the leaves and stalks, is highly toxic and can cause kidney failure and death in rabbits. - Raw Dough
Raw dough contains yeast, which can expand in an animal’s stomach and produce alcohol during fermentation. As with alcoholic drinks, even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, coordination problems, central nervous system depression and death. - Avocado
Avocados contain persin, which is toxic to many animals. Dogs and cats are generally more tolerant, but the pit can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. Rabbits, however, are highly sensitive to persin and can suffer from respiratory distress and heart failure. If consumed, even small amounts of these items can be fatal, so always act immediately and take your dog to the vet.
