PRINT5 things not to feed your pets
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May 7, 2009 | 12:00 a.m. CST
1. Avocados
Tell Tweety to skip the guac — birds and other small pets are especially susceptible to avocado poisoning. Avocados contain Persin, a toxin that can lead to serious complications and even prove fatal.
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2. Lilies
They might be beautiful spring flowers, but lillies are highly toxic to cats. Even in small amounts, these bouquets cause kidney failure. It seems curiosity is quite the burden for felines.
3. Chocolate
It shouldn’t be news to anyone that chocolate isn’t good for pets, but it’s important to know why. Theobromine is a component of chocolate that in sufficient quantities is toxic to dogs. Stick to pseudo-bacon treats instead.
4. Xylitol
This common sweetener can cause an insulin release that could lead to liver failure in most species. It’s found in many products such as gum, candy, baked goods and toothpaste, so make sure these are out of reach of all paws, claws and beaks.
5. Grapes and Raisins
These California confections can cause kidney failure in pets. Although the component of grapes that causes sickness is still unknown, it is unsafe for your companion to consume this sweet fruit.
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