Last Updated: 29/03/2025
Safe and Unsafe Human Foods for Pets: What You Need to Know
Learn which human foods are safe or unsafe for your pets? Read more here.
Author: Dr Josepha Cox BBiomedSc (Hons) DVM
Reading Time: 7 minutes - short read
Last Updated: 29/03/2025
Learn which human foods are safe or unsafe for your pets? Read more here.
Author: Dr Josepha Cox BBiomedSc (Hons) DVM
Reading Time: 7 minutes - short read
"Ah, the age-old question: ‘Can my furry friend have a taste of my food?’ While our pets might beg with those big, puppy-dog eyes, it’s important to know what’s safe and what’s not. Fear not, pet parents! We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of human foods that are not only safe but can even be a tasty treat for your four-legged friend. So, go ahead, indulge your pet’s inner foodie without worrying!"
Lean meats and fish belong in our pets' diets! Meats are best given plain, unseasoned and free of added oils. You may feed the meat fresh or cooked however, cooking generally removes the risk of bacterial and parasitic contamination. Also never feed your pet cooked bones.
Some safe protein options for pets
Please note some pets are lactose intolerant so don't continue to feed dairy if this upsets your pet's tummy.
It's best to steer away from ham and other processed meats as they often contain a lot of salt which is not ideal for our cats and dogs.
Learn more about the risks and the benefits of raw bones for pets.
Vegetables can be a great low calorie snack that is full of vitamins, minerals and fibre. Most vegetables are best served plain with no seasonings and cooked (boiled or steamed) for easier digestion. Cats are notoriously more fussy than dogs so they may refuse any vegetables offered to them however, there is the occasional cat that loves to chow down on veggies!
Some safe vegetables for pets:
Fruits can be another nutritious snack and can be fed raw. However, be careful not to feed too much as they do contain a lot of natural sugar which can potentially cause tummy upsets.
Some safe fruits for pets:
All the above suggestions are for snacks and occasional treats in healthy pets. Please check with your regular vet regarding snacks if your pet is on a prescription diet or has a diagnosed medical condition.
Want to learn more? Check out our vet-written treat recipes:
Human foods for dogs: Which foods are safe for dogs? Medical News Today
What Kind of Human Foods Can Dogs Eat? Nasa Pet Hospital
What Human Foods Can Cats Eat? Purina
Safe Human Foods for Cats to Eat. Forever Vets
Can I Feed My Pet Fruit? Hill's Pet
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Author, BBiomedSc (Hons) DVM
Dr Josepha graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2015 and has spent her time in small animal practice in Melbourne. She has a special interest in diagnostic imaging, nutrition and geriatric medicine. She is currently completing further study in animal nutrition and her favourite part of being a vet is helping senior animals to live happily and comfortably into their twilight years.
