The festive season brings families and friends together around nicely set tables filled with delicious foods. However, in the joy of holiday treats, one must remember that not all festive foods are safe for our four-legged friends. The following article in mybestie.gr blog, will discuss pet-safe ingredients and table options, both for dogs and cats, to make your Christmas feast enjoyable and hazard-free for all.

Safe foods for dogs

• Lean meats: The lean meats, such as boneless, unseasoned turkey, chicken, and beef, are great sources of protein.
• Vegetables: These include carrots, green beans, plain sweet potatoes (no butter or seasonings), and peas.
• Fruits: Apple slices sans seeds, blueberries, and unsweetened cranberries.
• Plain rice or pasta: In small portions, this could go easy on the dog's stomach.
• Pumpkin (plain, cooked): Rich in fiber and very soothing to the digestive system.

Foods to avoid for dogs

• Cooked bones: These splinter and may cause choking.
• Onions and garlic: Poisonous, even in small amounts.
• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, a poison for dogs.
• Grapes and raisins: Known to cause kidney failure.
• Alcohol and caffeine: Both are highly toxic for dogs.
• Nutmeg: Common in many holiday dishes, it is toxic in large amounts.

Dog-friendly Christmas plate idea: A small amount of plain turkey meat, steamed carrots, a spoonful of mashed sweet potato, and a teaspoon of plain pumpkin puree.

Safe foods for cats

• Lean meats: Turkey, chicken, and lean beef-just make sure it's cooked and unseasoned.
• Fish: A small amount of cooked salmon or tuna.
• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans in moderation.
• Plain rice: Small amounts can be safe if your cat enjoys it.
• Pumpkin (plain, cooked): Helps with digestion and can be a tasty treat.

Foods to avoid for cats

• Onions and garlic: Highly toxic to cats.
• Dairy products: Many cats are lactose intolerant.
• Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries.
• Chocolate and sweets: Toxic to cats.
• Alcohol and caffeine: Extremely dangerous for cats.
• Fatty meats and skin: Too much fat can cause pancreatitis in cats.

Cat-friendly Christmas plate idea: A smidge of plain, cooked, turkey meat, a teaspoon of steamed salmon, a steamed green bean, and a dollop of plain pumpkin puree.

Tips for a pet-safe Christmas table

• Avoid sharing from the table: Keep pets off the dining table altogether.
• Serve their food separately: Prepare a special festive plate for your pet.
• Keep garbage out of reach: Secure trash to prevent your pets from scavenging for potentially harmful scraps.
• Monitor for allergic reactions: Gradually introduce new foods in small amounts and observe your pet carefully.
• Ask your vet: If you're concerned about particular ingredients, ask your veterinarian.
• Hydrate them well: Give your pets access to plenty of fresh water, especially if they enjoy richer foods.

With a little planning and consideration, your pets can also enjoy a special Christmas meal in safety. By offering them the right treats and keeping the offending foods out of reach, you'll ensure a holiday season that's merry and bright for all at the table—two-legged and four-legged guests alike! Just remember, a happy pet means a happy holiday!