Leftover Holiday Food: What’s Safe (And What’s Not) To Share With Pets

The holiday season may be over, but many homes are still enjoying leftover meals from popular holiday gatherings. While it’s tempting to share a bite of your dish with your pet, not all holiday food is safe for them. In fact, some well-meaning choices can quickly lead to an emergency vet visit.

Loving pet parents want to include their dog or cat in family traditions, but human food, rich seasonings, and fatty leftovers can cause serious health issues. Let’s walk through what’s safe, what to keep away from, and how to protect your pet while still showing them love.

Leftover holiday food and pets: Why they can be risky

Few things will dampen a celebration faster than rushing a sick pet to the veterinarian. During the holidays and after the New Year, pets often have more access to food, plates left unattended, and tempting leftovers. Thus, pet parents should be more mindful of cleaning up food after every celebration.

But why exactly are holiday foods risky for pets? Many dishes are prepared with butter, oils, and heavy seasoning, which can overwhelm a pet’s digestive system. Even a small leftover bite can cause problems, especially for dogs and cats that aren’t used to rich foods. Fatty foods like turkey skin, gravy, or casseroles can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis.

If you can't resist their puppy eyes and constant meowing, there's a silver lining! There are many options for safe holiday foods for dogs and cats.

Safe holiday food for dogs and cats

While most savory foods can put your pets at risk, plain and unseasoned dishes can be shared in small amounts.

Pet-safe leftover holiday treat options include:

• Pumpkin (plain, cooked, or canned – great for digestion)

• Sweet potato (boiled or baked, no butter or seasoning)

• Green beans (steamed, plain)

• Carrots

• Peas

• Apples (no seeds or core)

• Spinach

• Winter squash

• Melon and berries

These options support good pet nutrition and can be a fun, healthy treat after the holiday season.

Foods to keep away from your pet

Some foods should never be shared, even as a holiday treat, because they pose serious health risks to your pet. To keep your pets safe, steering clear of these foods is non-negotiable:

• Chocolate desserts (contain theobromine, which is toxic)

• Raisin or grape-based dishes (even one raisin can be dangerous)

• Foods sweetened with xylitol (can cause xylitol toxicity)

• Onions, garlic, or stuffing with heavy seasoning

• Cranberry sauce with added sugar

• Alcohol or coffee drinks

If your pet ingests any unsafe food or begins showing signs of illness, contact your veterinary team immediately for guidance.

Symptoms of a pet that has ingested toxic food, and what to do

If your pet gets into an unsafe holiday dish, symptoms can appear quickly or develop over several hours. Watch closely for warning signs such as:

• vomiting,

• abdominal pain,

• lethargy,

• decreased appetite, or

• dehydration.

These symptoms may signal digestive upset or a more serious reaction to toxic ingredients.

Prompt action is an essential part of healthy pet care. If your dog or cat begins showing any of these signs, contact a veterinarian immediately or visit our pet health services for guidance and treatment.

Healthy holiday treats vs. leftovers

While leftover food may seem harmless, the best holiday food for your pet is made specifically for them. Pet-formulated treats are designed to support proper digestion and balanced pet nutrition without the added fats, sugars, or seasoning commonly found in human meals.

If you want to spoil your pet during or after the holidays, choose high-quality pet treats rather than table scraps. These options are safer, easier to portion, and better suited to your pet’s nutritional needs. You can shop for healthy food and veterinarian-recommended options in our pharmacy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can you share human foods with dogs on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other winter holidays?

Yes, but only certain foods. Plain pumpkin, sweet potato, or green beans are safer choices when prepared without seasoning and offered in small portions as part of healthy pet care.

2. Just what human foods can dogs eat around the holidays?

Dogs can enjoy small amounts of plain vegetables or fruits, such as pumpkin or apples. Always avoid fatty foods and desserts.

3. Can cats have holiday leftovers, too?

Cats are more sensitive than dogs. Stick to vet-approved treats and avoid holiday food entirely unless your veterinarian approves it.

4. What should I do if my dog or cat eats something unsafe?

If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, contact Billings Animal Family Hospital or call (406-245-4772) right away.

5. Is it okay to give pets holiday desserts?

No. Desserts often contain sugar, chocolate, or xylitol, which are dangerous for dogs and cats.

Support your pet’s health after the holiday season

If your pet experienced digestive upset or behavioral changes during the holiday season, a wellness exam can provide peace of mind and help catch issues early. Our team offers thorough care through our Comprehensive Wellness Check, as well as advanced evaluation and treatment options through our Specialized Care & Diagnostics.

Sharing the holidays with your pet is part of what makes them so special. By choosing pet-specific food and avoiding holiday foods that could harm your pet, you can protect your pet’s health while still making them feel included in the celebration.

If you ever have questions or concerns, our compassionate veterinary team is always here to support you and your pet with trusted, personalized care.