Pet and human foods are not the same. They may share a few similar ingredients, but the two provide different kinds of nutrients and are designed to benefit the two living beings differently. Therefore, pet treats are dangerous for humans, and pets are at risk of a serious health problem if they consume human food.
In this article, we’ll be strictly focusing on the latter and list the eight common human foods that are harmful to pets.
1. Chocolate
Simply put, chocolate is catastrophic for your pet’s health. Theobromine, which is a bitter-tasting compound, is the big issue here as it is toxic for the body of dogs and other animals. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and other serious health concerns that can prove fatal as well. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than the normal ones.

2. Caffeine
Giving your pet a taste of your morning or evening coffee might prove costly. Caffeine is toxic for a pet’s health, causing a severe reaction that translates into vomiting and excessive thirst. More severe problems like seizures and abnormal heart rhythm are also possible. Avoiding your pet’s contact with such foods is the right way forward.

3. Cinnamon
Unlike humans, pets, and especially dogs, derive nothing from cinnamon. The spice actually has the opposite effect, causing a range of health problems. It can lower your dog’s blood sugar level, leading to diarrhea and decreased heart rate. The oils in cinnamon cause irritation in a dog’s mouth, making them sick.

4. Garlic
If you have a dog, ensure that he/she avoids any contact with garlic. This ingredient is harmful to a dog’s health as it can cause anemia and lead to problems such as weakness and an elevated heart rate. If you’ve got a cat or any other pet, check with your vet before giving them garlic.

5. Avocado
The severity of the problem caused due to avocado depends on the type of pet you have. Dogs are fairly resistant to this fruit, until it exceeds a certain amount. An overdose of persin, the toxic compound in avocado, might cause choking and gastrointestinal blockages in dogs. Other types of animals, meanwhile, can suffer from cardiovascular problems after consuming avocado.

6. Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are not made for the animal body. For instance, dogs suffer from alcohol intoxication when they’re exposed to even a small amount of alcohol. Disorientation, excessive panting, muscle tremors, and seizures are some symptoms of alcohol intoxication, which get fatal at times. Other animals are also at risk of the problem, making alcohol one of the most dangerous human foods for pets.

7. Nuts
Most types of nuts are dangerous for your pet’s health. They have a poisonous effect, increasing the animal’s body temperature and making it unable to walk. Problems in the nervous system can also arise in certain animals.