The holidays are a time for family, friends, and delicious food—but for pet parents, they can also be a time of worry. One dropped bite or well-meaning guest can quickly turn a joyful gathering into an emergency vet visit. At TailMates Pet Services LLC, we believe that informed pet parents are empowered pet parents. If you’re celebrating this season in Landenberg, Kennett Square, Avondale, West Grove, or Oxford, PA, here’s a clear, easy-to-follow guide on which holiday foods your pets can enjoy and which ones should stay strictly off their plates.

Holiday Foods Pets Can Have (in Moderation)

While pets don’t need holiday feasts, a few safe options can help them feel included without risking their health.

Plain Cooked Turkey or Chicken

Lean, unseasoned turkey or chicken (no skin, bones, or gravy) is generally safe for dogs and cats. Avoid anything cooked with garlic, onions, butter, or spices.

Plain Pumpkin (Not Pie Filling)

Plain canned pumpkin is excellent for digestion and can help with mild constipation or diarrhea. Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin—no sugar or spices.

Cooked Carrots & Green Beans

Steamed or boiled vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas are safe and healthy treats. Skip added salt, oils, or seasonings.

Apples (No Seeds)

Apple slices without seeds or cores can be a crunchy, vitamin-rich snack for dogs. Cats may not be interested, but it’s still safe.

Holiday Foods Pets Should Never Have

Many popular holiday foods are dangerous—even toxic—to pets. These are the most important ones to avoid.

Chocolate & Desserts

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. This includes brownies, cookies, cakes, and cocoa powder.

Grapes & Raisins

Often found in desserts, breads, or charcuterie boards, grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. Even small amounts are risky.

Onions, Garlic & Leeks

Common in stuffing, gravies, and sauces, these ingredients can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in pets.

Alcohol & Fermented Foods

Alcohol can cause vomiting, disorientation, breathing issues, and even coma in pets. Keep drinks and fermented dough far out of reach.

Fatty Foods & Bones

Ham, turkey skin, bacon, and gravy can lead to pancreatitis. Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butters, xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can be fatal.

Special Considerations for Cats & Exotic Pets

Cats are especially sensitive to dietary changes and should not be fed most human foods. Stick to their regular diet and treats.
For reptiles and exotic pets, holiday foods are almost never appropriate. Changes in diet can cause serious digestive or metabolic issues—consult your vet before offering anything new.

Holiday Safety Tips for Pet Parents

• Keep pets out of the kitchen during cooking and serving.
  
• Use trash cans with secure lids to prevent scavenging.
  
• Politely remind guests not to feed your pets table scraps.
  
• Maintain normal feeding and walking routines as much as possible.
  

If you’re hosting guests, traveling, or just need extra support, professional pet care can make the holidays safer and less stressful for everyone.

Trusted Holiday Pet Care in Chester County, PA

At TailMates Pet Services LLC, we provide reliable, high-quality care for dogs, cats, reptiles, and other pets, including dog walking, overnight care, puppy visits, and special needs care. We proudly serve Landenberg, Kennett Square, Avondale, West Grove, and Oxford, PA, and we’re known for treating every pet like family.

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