Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs and Cats

Some foods are mildly unsuitable. These are genuinely poisonous, and a few are common in Indian kitchens.

The serious list

Onion and garlic (including powder) destroy red blood cells. Chocolate and caffeine cause tremors and heart arrhythmia. Grapes and raisins cause kidney failure at unpredictable doses. Xylitol, in sugar-free products, causes a collapse in blood sugar. Macadamia nuts, alcohol and raw dough are all dangerous.

Cats specifically

Lilies are fatal to cats in tiny amounts, including pollen. Paracetamol is lethal to cats — never give a human painkiller.

If it has been eaten

Call a vet immediately with the item, the amount and the time. Do not induce vomiting on your own — for some substances it makes the damage worse.

Prevention

Keep bins closed. Most poisoning cases start with a dog going through kitchen waste.