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11 Human Foods That Are Toxic to Pets

June 4, 2026 · 5 min read

Many everyday foods are dangerous to pets. Keep these out of reach — and if your pet eats one, call your vet or a poison line right away.

Chocolate

Theobromine is toxic to dogs; darker chocolate is worse. Use a chocolate toxicity calculator to estimate the dose.

Xylitol

This sweetener (sugar-free gum, candy, some peanut butter) causes dangerous low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs, fast.

Grapes & raisins

Can cause kidney failure in dogs even in small amounts — there's no known safe dose.

Onions, garlic, chives, leeks

Damage red blood cells in dogs and cats; cats are especially sensitive.

Acetaminophen & ibuprofen

Human painkillers are toxic — acetaminophen is especially deadly to cats. Never give without a vet.

Macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine, raw dough, cooked bones

All carry real risks, from weakness to obstruction. When in doubt, keep it away.

Suspect a toxin? Treat it as urgent. Our triage and toxicity calculators can help you gauge how serious it is while you call your vet.

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