Treats = Tail Wags. Toxins = Trouble. But which is which?

At Vital Vet, we know how deeply you love your furry (and scaly and feathered!) family
members. Of course you want to spoil them with something special! But some “treats” are
actually dangerous—even deadly—for our pets.

Let’s explore some hidden hazards and keep your pet’s tail wagging safely!

The Naughty List:

Chocolate

Most pet owners know chocolate is toxic to pets, but you might not realize how toxic. Chocolate
contains theobromine and caffeine, two compounds that pets can’t metabolize efficiently.
Dark chocolate and baking cocoa are the most dangerous, but even milk chocolate can cause
vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and heart problems.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure. Even a few pieces can lead to lethargy,
vomiting, and decreased appetite.

Sugar-Free Sweets and Gum – The Hidden Xylitol Risk

Xylitol, a common sugar substitute, is extremely dangerous to our pets. It’s often found in “sugar
free” processed and baked foods, and most commonly in gum!

Onions, Garlic, and Chives

These pantry staples can damage your pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Cooked, raw,
powdered—it doesn’t matter, they’re all unsafe.

Fatty or Fried Foods – Pancreatitis Triggers

A small piece of bacon or cheese might seem harmless, but high-fat foods can lead to
pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that’s painful and potentially life-threatening.

Bones and Rawhide

Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal tears. Rawhides can lead to
blockages and digestive irritation.

Alcohol, Coffee, and Energy Drinks

These beverages can cause serious toxicity, including tremors, seizures, and heart arrhythmias.
Even alcohol-based desserts or coffee grounds are risky.

What to Do if Your Pet Eats Something Toxic:

1. Don’t wait for symptoms. Contact us or an emergency veterinary facility as soon as
   you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t.
2. Have details ready: what they ate, when, and how much

We’ll support you through a toxin ingestion with honest, collaborative guidance—no
judgment, just help. Transparency is at the heart of our care, so you’ll always know what’s
happening, why we recommend certain treatments, and what your options are.

Safe Alternatives – Let’s Talk Treats!

Try some of these safe and fun treat ideas with your pet!

● Plain, cooked chicken breast
● Frozen green beans
● Vet-approved dental treats – like Tartar Shield
● Ice cubes
● Peas
● Peanut butter (try it frozen!)

And – hear us out – pieces of your pet’s normal diet. Not only is this the safest option
(especially for our sensitive friends who have a history of tummy troubles), but our pets love it!
Why? Because while they might love the treat, they love the fact it’s coming from you
even more. To them, it really is the thought and time with you that counts.

Want to know more? Schedule a consultation and get personalized treat recommendations
based on your pet’s health needs and diet!

Book directly on our website at https://petportal.vet/vvc or call us at 757-956-1110.