Foods Poisonous to Dogs, Cats, and Guinea Pigs

[Updated 10/20/17]

Years ago I gave our dog raisins and grapes – now I know these are poisonous to animals. The following is a short list of common foods poisonous to dogs, cats, and Guinea pigs (more information provided) or may cause problems for cats and dogs:

  • Alcohol – all types and beverages
  • Almonds
  • Apple seeds
  • Apricot pits
  • Avocado
  • Caffeine
  • Cherry pits
  • Chocolate
  • Coffee (beans and grinds) and tea
  • Figs
  • Garlic (in large quantities)
  • Grapes

  • Hops (used in home brewing)
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Mushrooms
  • Mustard seeds
  • Onions, onion power, chives
  • Peach pits
  • Potato leaves and stems, peelings, and unripe green potatoes
  • Raisins
  • Rhubarb leaves
  • Salt
  • Sugar free items containing Xylitol – found sugar free chewing gum and candies, baked good, and toothpaste
  • Tomato leaves and stems, green tomatoes
  • Walnuts and walnut hulls
  • Yeast dough

Guinea pigs, like all animals, are affected by some foods. NEVER feed these to your guinea pig:

  • Cauliflower
  • Caffeine
  • Chocolate
  • Coffee (beans and grinds) and tea
  • Corn kernels or popcorn
  • Cruciferous vegetables (i.e., cabbage, collard, bok choy, or broccoli) because it may cause gas.
  • Dairy products including cheese
  • Food for hamsters, gerbil, rabbits or any non-guinea pig food
  • Iceberg lettuce
  • Meat products
  • Potato peelings
  • Raw beans (i.e., hard kidney beans, split peas, pinto beans, etc.)
  • Rhubarb
  • Shelled nuts or seeds (i.e., sunflower seeds or bird seed mixes)
  • Sugary foods

Wondering what is a great diet for your guinea pig? Check out this information.

A great infographic on safe/toxic people food for dogs. And more information on unsafe food for cats and dogs.

Who do you call when your pet ate something that concerns you?  Call  Pet Poison Helpline® at 885-764-7661. $59 USD per incident fee applies and is well worth it. Some experiences with this service. 

After the crisis has passed, Animal Bridges can help you and your pet with loving techniques to continue the road to recovery. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.

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