Best Fall Foods for Pets: What’s Safe and What’s Not

October 18, 2024

As the weather cools down and the fall season brings out a variety of delicious seasonal foods, you might be tempted to share some of these treats with your pets. However, not all fall favorites are safe for pets. In this guide, we'll explore healthy seasonal foods that are beneficial for your furry friends, as well as those you should avoid.


Safe Fall Foods for Pets:

  1. Pumpkin – Packed with fiber and vitamins A and C, pumpkin is excellent for your pet’s digestion. Be sure to use plain, cooked pumpkin (no spices or added sugars).
  2. Sweet Potatoes – Another fiber-rich option, sweet potatoes are a safe, nutrient-dense snack when cooked plain and served without added sugar or seasonings.
  3. Apples – Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core before feeding them to your pet.
  4. Carrots – Whether raw or cooked, carrots are a crunchy treat filled with beta-carotene and fiber, making them a healthy snack for dogs.
  5. Green Beans – Full of fiber and low in calories, plain green beans can be a great treat for pets who need to watch their weight.


Foods to Avoid:

  1. Chocolate – A common Halloween treat, chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats. Keep all chocolate far out of reach of your pets.
  2. Grapes and Raisins – Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in pets. Avoid giving them these fruits, whether fresh or dried.
  3. Onions and Garlic – These fall cooking staples can be toxic to pets, leading to anemia or gastrointestinal distress.
  4. Nuts – Macadamia nuts, in particular, are very dangerous for pets, causing weakness, vomiting, and hyperthermia. Other nuts can be difficult to digest and pose a choking hazard.
  5. Nutmeg – Commonly used in fall spice mixes, nutmeg is harmful to pets and can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure.



By sticking to pet-safe foods like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and apples, your pets can enjoy the flavors of fall while staying healthy and happy!