Holiday pet blog posts and articles generally contain a long list of “Don’ts.” And, while recognizing that many holiday activities, decorations, and foods can be disastrous for pets is important, these warnings can make the holly-jolliest owners feel pretty bah-humbug.

So, rather than focus on keeping your pet off the naughty list, the Caring Hands Animal Hospital team has put together a nice list of pet-friendly holiday foods you can safely share—always in moderation—with your dog or cat.

Skinless white meat turkey for pets

Turkey is probably most four-legged foodies’ first choice and, thankfully, properly prepared poultry is perfectly safe for pets, because the meat is a gentle and highly digestible protein that’s great for pets with sensitive stomachs. But, always remove the skin and any visible fat, which are rich and can cause dangerous pancreatitis. In addition, skip the gravy and stuffing, which may contain toxic onions, garlic, or leeks. 

Pumpkin for pets

Pet owners may know that pumpkin is a soothing solution for a dog with a digestive upset, but pumpkin and other squash varieties (e.g., butternut, yellow squash, zucchini) are great pet treats anytime. Pumpkin, which contains immune-boosting vitamins C and E, beta carotene (vitamin A), potassium, and iron, and is low in calories and high in fiber, is a safe treat for overweight pets.

If you’ll be using canned pumpkin, ensure you purchase 100% pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling—which contains sweeteners and extra calories. And, if your pet doesn’t consume pumpkin regularly, start with only a small serving, because too much can cause constipation.

Green beans and peas for pets

These toy-like shaped vegetables can lead to some pets playing with their food, but we think that’s half the fun. Like pumpkin, green beans and peas are nutritious high-fiber, low-calorie foods that can help hungry pets feel full without packing on the pounds. Peas are also a great protein source and contain lutein, a vision-enhancing, anti-inflammatory antioxidant.  

You can feed your pet raw, steamed, or cooked peas or green beans, but stick with fresh or frozen, because the canned vegetables are high in sodium. Also, avoid beans or peas as ingredients in holiday casseroles and side dishes that contain seasonings and sauces.

Carrots for pets

Dogs crave the satisfying crunch of carrots, which do not include the risk and worry caused by many popular chew toys. Carrots are fun to eat, and provide many valuable nutrients, including fiber, potassium, antioxidants, and vitamins A, K, and B6. Notes about dogs and carrots include:

  • Carrots can be served raw or cooked.
  • Feed whole raw carrots in the right size that will prevent choking.
  • Frozen raw carrots will extend your dog’s chewing pleasure.
  • Carrots derive their sweetness from a high natural sugar content, so ensure you limit your pet’s intake to less than 10% of their daily calories.

Sweet potatoes and pets

Mashed sweet potatoes are a staple side dish at most holiday tables, but you’ll need to modify this festive favorite to ensure you can safely share with your pet. Set aside a serving of plain mashed sweet potatoes before you add any butter, sugar, or marshmallows, or slice raw sweet potatoes and bake the chips or strips low and slow for a dehydrated treat.

Despite their name, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index—meaning they won’t cause a spike in your pet’s blood sugar, which makes them a great treat for diabetic pets. Also, as complex carbohydrates, sweet potatoes provide a slow energy release and their rich fiber content supports a healthy gut microbiome. 

Always bake or boil sweet potatoes and remove the skins to prevent choking and ensure maximum digestibility. Stuff your dog’s Kong with mashed sweet potato, or spread the mashed vegetable and plain low-fat Greek yogurt on a lickable mat for fun and soothing food enrichment.

Apple slices or unsweetened applesauce for pets

If your holiday menu includes a traditional apple pie, you can safely save a few plain slices that, unseasoned and in moderation, make great pet treats. Apples contain fiber and vitamins A and C, the same as other whole foods on the Caring Hands Animal Hospital pet-safe list.

However, never let your pet eat a whole apple, because each seed contains cyanide, which is a dangerous compound, even in the small amount in each seed. Plus, practicing safety first is always best when treating your pet.

For a puréed alternative for your pet’s food puzzle, try unsweetened applesauce, but first freeze the toy before you add food layers, because applesauce can be runny.

Cranberries and blueberries and pets

Pets can be a bit selective about these sweet and tart bite-sized superfoods, so taste-test for your pet’s preferences.

Antioxidant-rich berries boost your pet’s immune system and add flavorful fiber, but you should stick with plain whole fresh or frozen berries to ensure you know exactly what your pet is eating. Dried berries and berry-laden snack foods, such as trail mix, cereal, and snack bars, may contain raisins, currants, or raisin paste, which can be toxic to dogs. Avoid the worry by sharing only whole berries with your pet.

Sharing food is a universal expression of love, but you must treat your pet with care and moderation. If your pet eats something toxic or harmful, immediately contact Caring Hands Animal Hospital or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.