Pet Food Safety Checker

Check if foods are safe for your pet with our comprehensive database of toxic and safe foods. Get instant safety alerts and emergency guidance for dogs and cats.

Instant Search
Safety Alerts
500+
Foods in Database
24/7
Emergency Info
Free
Safety Tool

Comprehensive Pet Food Safety Database

Our extensive food safety checker includes toxic foods for dogs and cats, safe treat alternatives, emergency poisoning guidance, and nutritional benefits. Protect your pet with instant safety information and professional veterinary recommendations.

Emergency Contacts
Pet Poison Helpline
(855) 764-7661
24/7 emergency service
ASPCA Poison Control
(888) 426-4435
24/7 emergency service
Search Foods
Search our database of safe and toxic foods

Quick Stats

Total Foods:20
Safe Foods:9
Toxic Foods:6
Chocolate
Toxic

Contains theobromine and caffeine which are toxic to pets. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate.

Also known as:
cocoa
cacao
dark chocolate
milk chocolate
white chocolate
Symptoms of poisoning:
vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, seizures, tremors
Emergency Action:
Contact veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.
Grapes
Toxic

Can cause kidney failure in dogs and cats. Even small amounts can be dangerous.

Also known as:
raisins
sultanas
currants
Symptoms of poisoning:
vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, kidney failure
Emergency Action:
Seek immediate veterinary care. Time is critical.
Onions
Toxic

Contains compounds that damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Also known as:
garlic
shallots
leeks
chives
Symptoms of poisoning:
weakness, vomiting, breathing difficulties, pale gums
Emergency Action:
Contact veterinarian if consumed in significant amounts.
Xylitol
Toxic

Artificial sweetener that causes rapid insulin release and liver damage.

Also known as:
sugar-free gum
sugar-free candy
diet products
Symptoms of poisoning:
vomiting, loss of coordination, lethargy, collapse
Emergency Action:
Emergency veterinary care required immediately.
Avocado
Toxic

Contains persin which can cause digestive upset and breathing difficulties.

Also known as:
avocado pit
avocado leaves
Symptoms of poisoning:
vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing
Emergency Action:
Monitor closely and contact vet if symptoms develop.
Macadamia Nuts
Toxic

Causes weakness, depression, vomiting and tremors in dogs.

Also known as:
macadamias
Symptoms of poisoning:
weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, hyperthermia
Emergency Action:
Contact veterinarian for guidance on treatment.
Dairy Products
Caution

Many pets are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive upset.

Also known as:
milk
cheese
yogurt
ice cream
Symptoms of poisoning:
diarrhea, vomiting, gas, bloating
Serving guidelines:
Small amounts occasionally. Choose lactose-free options if available.
High-Fat Foods
Caution

Can cause pancreatitis and digestive upset.

Also known as:
bacon
sausage
fried foods
fatty meat
Symptoms of poisoning:
vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy
Serving guidelines:
Avoid or give very small amounts as rare treats.
Cooked Bones
Caution

Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Also known as:
chicken bones
pork bones
beef bones
Symptoms of poisoning:
choking, vomiting, constipation, bloody stool
Serving guidelines:
Only give raw bones appropriate for pet size, under supervision.
Salty Foods
Caution

Excessive salt can lead to sodium poisoning and dehydration.

Also known as:
chips
pretzels
salted nuts
processed foods
Symptoms of poisoning:
excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, diarrhea
Serving guidelines:
Avoid salty snacks. Provide fresh water always.
Chicken
Safe

Excellent source of lean protein when cooked without seasoning.

Also known as:
chicken breast
chicken thigh
cooked chicken
Nutritional benefits:
high protein, low fat, essential amino acids
Serving guidelines:
Cook thoroughly, remove bones and skin. No seasoning or oil.
Rice
Safe

Easily digestible carbohydrate, good for upset stomachs.

Also known as:
white rice
brown rice
cooked rice
Nutritional benefits:
easy to digest, energy source, fiber (brown rice)
Serving guidelines:
Cook plain without salt or butter. Start with small amounts.
Pumpkin
Safe

Rich in fiber and vitamins, good for digestive health.

Also known as:
pumpkin puree
cooked pumpkin
Nutritional benefits:
high fiber, vitamin A, digestive health
Serving guidelines:
Use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling. 1-2 tablespoons for dogs, 1 teaspoon for cats.
Sweet Potato
Safe

Nutritious root vegetable rich in vitamins and fiber.

Also known as:
cooked sweet potato
sweet potato puree
Nutritional benefits:
vitamin A, fiber, potassium, antioxidants
Serving guidelines:
Cook thoroughly, remove skin. Small portions as treats.
Carrots
Safe

Low-calorie vegetable good for dental health and vision.

Also known as:
baby carrots
cooked carrots
Nutritional benefits:
vitamin A, fiber, low calorie, dental health
Serving guidelines:
Raw or cooked. Cut into appropriate sizes to prevent choking.
Blueberries
Safe

Antioxidant-rich fruit that's low in calories.

Also known as:
fresh blueberries
frozen blueberries
Nutritional benefits:
antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, low calorie
Serving guidelines:
Fresh or frozen. Give as occasional treats, 2-3 berries for cats, handful for dogs.
Salmon
Safe

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.

Also known as:
cooked salmon
salmon fillet
Nutritional benefits:
omega-3 fatty acids, protein, healthy skin and coat
Serving guidelines:
Cook thoroughly, remove all bones. No seasoning or oil.
Green Beans
Safe

Low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
string beans
cooked green beans
Nutritional benefits:
low calorie, fiber, vitamins A, C, K
Serving guidelines:
Fresh, frozen, or cooked without seasoning. Cut into appropriate sizes.
Tuna
Caution

High in protein but should be given sparingly due to mercury content.

Also known as:
canned tuna
tuna in water
Nutritional benefits:
high protein, omega-3 fatty acids
Serving guidelines:
Occasional treat only. Choose tuna in water, not oil. Risk of mercury poisoning with frequent feeding.
Catnip
Safe

Safe herb that provides mental stimulation for cats.

Also known as:
fresh catnip
dried catnip
Nutritional benefits:
mental stimulation, stress relief
Serving guidelines:
Use as enrichment toy or treat. Not all cats respond to catnip.
Food Safety Guidelines

General Safety Tips

  • • Always introduce new foods gradually
  • • Monitor your pet for any adverse reactions
  • • When in doubt, don't give it to your pet
  • • Keep emergency vet contact information handy
  • • Store toxic foods securely away from pets

Signs of Food Poisoning

  • • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • • Loss of appetite or lethargy
  • • Difficulty breathing
  • • Excessive drooling or panting
  • • Unusual behavior or distress
Frequently Asked Questions

Contact your veterinarian or emergency vet immediately. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Symptoms may not appear for 12-24 hours. Treatment is most effective within 2 hours of ingestion. Never wait to see if symptoms develop.

Related Calculators
Explore more tools to help care for your pet

Dog Food Calculator

Calculate safe portions for your dog

Raw Diet Planner

Plan safe raw food meals

Vet Cost Estimator

Estimate emergency vet costs

Pet Age Calculator

Convert your pet's age

About PawCalculator

Learn about our methodology

Pet Care Insights

Read expert articles

Veterinary Disclaimer

This food safety checker provides general toxicity information. Always contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet ingests a toxic substance.

  • • Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet's diet or care routine
  • • These calculations are estimates and may need adjustment based on your pet's individual needs
  • • Medical conditions, medications, and special circumstances require professional veterinary guidance
  • • Monitor your pet's health and adjust recommendations as needed with your vet's approval