Having a pet dog or cat at home can lift your mood and make you happy. But be careful. Pets constantly sniff and explore the house. They can go and nibble on scraps in the kitchen and eat something that can harm them. Ultimately, your pet’s health is in your hands, and you should know what’s good or bad for them. To help you, we’ve listed the best and worst foods for dogs and cats.

1. Carrots are excellent for oral health
When had in moderation, carrots are one of the best foods for dogs and cats. It’s a low-calorie veggie that ensures proper dental hygiene in pets by removing plaque and keeping their teeth strong. Carrots are also rich in fiber and contain beta-carotene, an antioxidant that can help overcome vitamin A deficiency. This vitamin improves eyesight and plays a crucial role in preventing various infections in animals.

2. Say yes to chicken for protein
While meat is a must for cats because they are obligate carnivores, even dogs love a plain boiled chicken without seasoning. Chicken is one of the best lean protein sources for pets as it helps build stronger bones and shinier fur. However, the bones can be a choking hazard for younger pets, so feed them deboned chicken breasts. You can even mix it with white rice to help your dog in case of an upset stomach.

3. Pumpkin is good for digestion
Pumpkin is listed among the superfoods for dogs and cats. It contains soluble fibers that can regulate the digestive tract and remove excess water from the stomach. Learning how to give pumpkin to your pet in pureed form can help prevent diarrhea. Pumpkin is also packed with minerals that can boost your pet’s stamina and improve their overall health.

4. Chocolate causes toxicity
Chocolate contains theobromine, which your pet’s system cannot easily metabolize. Its build-up in the system can cause severe toxicity and lead to tremors, seizures, and even death. Cocoa and dark chocolate are considered the most harmful. If your dog or cat has even tiny bits, you’ll see signs of an upset stomach. So don’t keep chocolates at places where your pets can reach them. Contact your vet or the clinic immediately if your furry friend has eaten a fair share of chocolates, as timely treatment is vital.

5. Sweetened foods can damage the liver
Items that contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol are the worst foods for dogs and cats. Xylitol is commonly found in candy, soft drinks, and some sugar-free products, and it results in insulin release in the human body. However, the repercussions are different in pets. They can suffer from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can further lead to liver issues and blood clotting.