Keep curious cats away from Thanksgiving feast
This is the season of thanks and reflection. Let's include our animal companions in our thoughts of thanks.
However, we should not be so thankful that we treat them to table food.
If you think this cautionary concern applies more to dogs than felines, you are mistaken. Felines don't have to wait for you to offer them scraps - they are more than capable of helping themselves.
Do not leave food out unattended to cool, especially turkey. Felines will jump onto the counter to feed and they may ingest some turkey bones. Dressing may lure curious cats to the counter, especially if chicken broth is an ingredient. Dressing is way too spicy for our feline friends, and it could make them ill.
Onions and garlic in the dressing is even more toxic. Both can damage red blood cells. If you have made dips that contain these ingredients, do not leave them unattended. The sour cream or cream cheese bases are irresistible to our pets.
Do you have nuts in your stuffing? Some nuts can cause tremors in felines, especially macadamia nuts.
If you think you have planned to outsmart your feline by covering everything with aluminum foil or bagging everything, guess again. He will just have a slightly harder time to enjoy the contents after the packaging is torn open.
When felines are really frustrated, they are apt to knock the entire packaging to the floor so they can enjoy what they have their hearts set on.
Suggested safe places to hide food until it can be refrigerated are an empty microwave, the top of the refrigerator or an empty, cool convection or traditional oven.
The goal, besides keeping your feline in good health, is to avoid the emergency veterinarian clinic. Your regular vet will not be available on a holiday.
What can you safely feed your feline without a problem? If you plan ahead, you can purchase a tasty treat called Kitty Caviar. Felines go absolutely crazy for it. You can usually only find this product in privately owned pet stores.
If you want to stick to traditional holiday fare, try canned pumpkin or pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin filling is a well-known cure for constipated felines, so do not offer more than a teaspoon or two unless your animal suffers from this condition.
Cranberries or cranberry relish are also a safe, tasty treat. Many felines crave fruit, and cranberries are a commonly found ingredient in premium, all-natural cat foods. If you opt for pumpkin pie filling, make sure to buy the unseasoned variety.
Pumpkin and fish or meat protein are becoming increasingly popular in premium brand canned foods available only at specialty and big-box pet stores. Pumpkin foods can be served as a treat and to keep your feline's system regulated.
If you are not home and your feline is in boarding, make sure you welcome him home with lavish attention and treats. Reward him for allowing you to have a good time without him.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization. Call (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.