Thanksgiving is a season for gratitude, family, and comfort food, but it can also bring unexpected risks for our pets. Between busy kitchens, visiting guests, and tempting smells, the holiday can quickly become overwhelming for dogs and cats.
At Mass-RI Veterinary ER, we see a rise in emergency visits every November caused by holiday pet safety concerns. From turkey bones lodged in the throat to chocolate toxicity and stress-related illness, our emergency team has seen it all.
This year, we’re sharing expert advice to help you avoid a Thanksgiving pet emergency and enjoy a safe, relaxing holiday with your pets.
1. Thanksgiving Foods Pets Should Avoid
Many traditional dishes contain ingredients that are dangerous for animals. Understanding which Thanksgiving foods are toxic to dogs and cats can help prevent serious illness.
Common Offenders
- Turkey bones and skin: Cooked turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or damage to the digestive tract, and fatty turkey skin is a known trigger for pancreatitis in dogs.
- Onions, garlic, and chives: These Allium-family ingredients (common in stuffing and sides) are harmful to dogs and cats, and ingestion may lead to red blood cell damage and hemolytic anemia.
- Gravy, butter, and salty foods: Meals high in fat or salt can upset your pet’s stomach and may trigger gallbladder or pancreas issues (such as pancreatitis) or sodium-related problems.
- Unbaked dough: Raw yeast dough can expand in a pet’s stomach, and the fermenting yeast produces alcohol, which can lead to bloating and alcohol-toxicity symptoms.
- Raisins and grapes: Even a small number may cause acute kidney injury in dogs and should always be treated as an emergency.
What’s Safe to Share
If you want your pet to enjoy a small holiday treat, choose safe Thanksgiving foods for pets like plain, boneless turkey, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling), green beans, or sweet potatoes. Keep portions small and skip any seasoning, oil, or butter. However, if your pet has an existing condition like diabetes, kidney disease, or pancreatitis, check with your veterinarian before adding anything new to their diet, even small holiday treats.
Providing your pet with a special treat of their own is a great way to include them in the celebration without putting their health at risk.
2. Sweet Treats Can Spell Trouble
Desserts and baked goods are another major source of Thanksgiving dangers for pets. Chocolate, xylitol (a sweetener often used in sugar-free foods), and certain nuts like macadamias can all cause severe toxicity.
Keep Sweets Out of Reach
- Store baked goods and candies in sealed containers or cabinets.
- Clean countertops promptly and keep pets out of the kitchen while baking.
- Discard chocolate wrappers and cupcake liners immediately after use.
If your pet eats something potentially toxic, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call your veterinarian or visit an emergency veterinarian open on Thanksgiving right away. Fast treatment gives your pet the best chance of recovery.
3. Managing Holiday Stress for Pets
Not every Thanksgiving danger is food-related. For many pets, the noise, guests, and disruption to their routine can lead to anxiety or escape attempts.
Tips for a Calmer Holiday
- Set up a quiet room with familiar bedding, water, and toys.
- Play soft music or use a white noise machine to muffle noise.
- Remind guests not to feed or chase pets.
- Keep ID tags and microchip information up to date in case of an accidental escape.
Taking a walk or a play session before festivities begin can help release energy and reduce stress. Keeping your pet comfortable is an important part of holiday pet safety.
4. Watch Out for Hidden Hazards
Thanksgiving décor can be beautiful, and hazardous. Cats and dogs are naturally curious, which can lead to accidental injuries or poisoning.
Common Thanksgiving Pet Hazards
- Candles: Use flameless candles to prevent burns or fire.
- Essential oils and potpourri: Many contain toxins that can irritate the skin or respiratory system.
- Decorative corn, ribbons, and artificial fruits: Can cause choking or gastrointestinal blockages.
- Toxic plants: Lilies, amaryllis, and chrysanthemums can be poisonous if chewed or swallowed.
Choose pet-safe decorations such as fabric garlands, unscented candles, and flowers like roses or sunflowers. Always place fragile or electrical items well out of reach.
5. Don’t Forget About the Trash
The trash can is one of the biggest holiday hazards for pets. Bones, fatty leftovers, and food packaging are all dangerous if consumed.
Prevent a Thanksgiving Trash Disaster
- Use a trash can with a locking or weighted lid.
- Keep garbage behind a closed door or in the garage.
- Empty it regularly, especially after cooking.
If your pet gets into the trash and begins vomiting, acting lethargic, or showing signs of abdominal pain, seek care immediately. The team at Mass-RI Veterinary ER is equipped to diagnose and treat these emergencies quickly and safely.
6. Know When It’s Time to Call the Vet
Even with preparation, accidents can still happen. Recognizing when to call the vet can make all the difference in keeping your pet safe.
When to Call the Vet
- Your pet eats chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, or bones.
- Vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than a few hours.
- Your pet seems weak, bloated, or disoriented.
- You notice shaking, tremors, or unusual behavior.
If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, call ahead to avoid the wait at 508-206-8992. Walk-ins are always welcome, but calling first helps our team prepare for your arrival.
At Mass-RI Veterinary ER, we provide Veterinary Emergency Services and Urgent Care seven days a week, from 8 AM to 10 PM, with 24-hour monitoring for hospitalized patients. We’re here when your pet needs us most, every day of the year, including Thanksgiving.
A Thankful, Safe, and Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving should be filled with love, comfort, and gratitude, not worry about a sick pet. With a few easy steps, you can prevent common Thanksgiving pet hazards and ensure your pets enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday at home.
Our team at Mass-RI Veterinary ER is proud to serve families throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Whether your pet needs urgent care or emergency treatment, we’re here to help you through the holidays and beyond.
From all of us at Mass-RI, we wish you and your pets a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving!
📞 Call ahead to avoid the wait: (508) 206-8992
🚪 Walk-ins welcome | Open 8 AM – 10 PM | 24-Hour Care for Hospitalized Patients