Holiday Food Safety for Pets: Simple Tips to Keep Them Safe
Nov 21st 2025
The holidays are a time for family, good food, and plenty of celebrating. With all the cooking and snacking that happens this time of year, it’s natural for pets to get curious about what’s on the table or what ends up on the floor.
While it’s fun to share the season with our pets, some holiday foods can cause stomach issues or be harmful altogether. Here are a few easy reminders to help keep your dog or cat safe during the holidays.
Foods to Avoid
Rich or fatty foods
Things like turkey skin, gravy, and heavily seasoned dishes may taste great to us, but they can be tough on a pet’s stomach. Even a small amount can lead to digestive upset.
Cooked bones
Turkey and ham bones can splinter easily, and pets can swallow sharp pieces without realizing it. It’s best to keep all cooked bones out of reach.
Stuffing and casseroles
A lot of holiday recipes use onions, garlic, or chives, which are unsafe for pets. Even small amounts can cause problems.
Chocolate and desserts
Chocolate, raisins, nutmeg, and xylitol (found in some sugar-free treats) are all dangerous for pets. Keep desserts on higher counters or covered when possible.
Alcohol and holiday drinks
Pets don’t need much exposure to alcohol for it to affect them. Keep cups and glasses away from the floor or edges of tables.
Safer Options to Share
If you want to give your pet a small holiday treat, a few simple foods are usually safe when served plain:
A small amount of cooked, unseasoned turkey
Steamed green beans
- Plain sweet potatoes
- Activa Soft Chews Treats
- Plain pumpkin purée
- Baby carrots or sliced apples (no seeds)
When in doubt, skip the table scraps and go with a pet-safe treat instead. It keeps things simple and avoids any guesswork.
Other Holiday Tips
Watch the trash.
Big meals create full trash cans, and pets are quick to investigate. Make sure the lid is secure or take trash out sooner than usual.
Mind the decorations.
Tinsel, ribbon, open candles, and electrical cords can all be tempting. A quick check before guests arrive can prevent accidents.
Give pets a quiet space.
Holiday gatherings can be loud or overwhelming. Make sure your pet has a comfortable place to retreat if they need a break.
Enjoy the Season, Safely
A little awareness goes a long way in keeping pets safe during the holidays. With a few simple precautions, your pets can enjoy the season right alongside the rest of the family.
From everyone at Activa Pet Foods, we hope you and your pets have a warm, safe, and happy holiday season.