Pet-Friendly Thanksgiving Treats for Dogs and Cats

What They Can Enjoy, What to Avoid, and How to Keep Them Calm

Thanksgiving fills the house with amazing smells and a lot of activity. While we’re chopping, stirring, and catching up with family, our pets are taking it all in too. The noise, the people, the food on the counters. It can be exciting, stressful, and very tempting for them.

If you want to include your dog or cat in the holiday fun, there are plenty of safe foods you can share. There are also a few items that should stay far away from their bowl. Below is a simple guide plus two easy recipes you can make with ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Pet-Safe Thanksgiving Foods

These are safe in small amounts as long as they are plain and unseasoned.

Pumpkin (plain, canned, or cooked)
Great for digestion. Works for both dogs and cats.

Turkey (boneless, skinless, and unseasoned)
A nice protein boost. Serve it without the skin or fatty pieces.

Green beans
Crunchy, low-calorie, and easy on the stomach.

Sweet potatoes
Baked or boiled with nothing added.

Carrots
Raw or cooked. Perfect for dogs who like to chew.

Bone broth (low-sodium and onion free)
Soothing, hydrating, and comforting for nervous pets.

Foods That Are Not Safe

Some foods seem harmless, but they can cause serious problems.

Turkey skin and drippings
Too fatty and can upset the stomach.

Cooked bones
They splinter easily and can cause choking or internal injury.

Stuffing
Usually contains onions, garlic, herbs, and butter. None of these are safe for pets.

Grapes, raisins, and cranberry sauce
Grapes and raisins are toxic. Cranberry sauce often contains sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Onions, garlic, scallions, chives
Even small amounts can be dangerous for dogs and cats.

Desserts
Chocolate, sugar, and especially xylitol can be very harmful.

Easy Thanksgiving Treat Ideas

1. Pumpkin and Turkey Mini Meal (Dog Friendly)

Ingredients:
• ½ cup plain cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon unsalted bone broth
• 1 spoonful plain mashed sweet potato

How to make it:

1. Shred the turkey into small pieces.
2. Mix the pumpkin and sweet potato until smooth.
3. Add the bone broth.
4. Serve in a small bowl.

You can freeze the leftovers in small molds for later.

2. Turkey and Broth Comfort Bowl (Cat Friendly)

Ingredients:
• ¼ cup finely chopped plain cooked turkey
• 1 to 2 tablespoons warm bone broth
• 1 tablespoon pure pumpkin

How to make it:

1. Warm the bone broth until it is slightly warm but not hot.
2. Mix everything together until it forms a soft, moist bowl.
3. Serve as a special Thanksgiving dinner topper.

Cats usually love the smell of warm broth. It feels like comfort food to them.

Helping Your Pets Stay Calm During the Holiday

Thanksgiving can be a lot for pets. The doorbell, the conversation, the smells, and all the extra movement around the house may overwhelm them. A few simple adjustments can help.

Tip 1: Create a Calm Space

Give your pet a quiet room with their bed, a favorite toy, and some water. Let guests know this is their safe spot.

Tip 2: Help Them Burn Off Energy Before Guests Arrive

A walk, play session, or a few minutes of active time can make a big difference. A tired pet is usually a calmer pet.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is a time to share warmth and good food, and that can include your furry family members too. With a little planning, you can give them a holiday treat that is both safe and delicious. Keeping their stress in check helps ensure the day feels special for everyone in the home, pets included.