6 Holiday Foods That Are Dangerous or Toxic For Your Cat
The holidays in San Francisco are all about cozy gatherings and that unmistakable foggy charm. Between sourdough stuffing, Dungeness crab feasts, and the scent of Ghirardelli chocolate desserts wafting through the air, our city’s kitchens are full of tempting aromas. But while you’re plating up crab cioppino or pouring a glass of Napa Valley wine, your curious cat might be plotting their own holiday “taste test.”
Before your camper sneaks a bite, here are some Bay Area holiday favorites that are unsafe or even toxic for cats:
Chocolate
From Ghirardelli squares to homemade brownies, chocolate is everywhere this time of year. But for cats, even a small nibble is dangerous. A staple of holiday desserts, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, two compounds that cats cannot metabolize safely. Even a small bite can cause vomiting, restlessness, or tremors. Keep all truffles, brownies, and cocoa mixes sealed and out of reach.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
Found in many savory dishes like soups, gravies, and stuffing, these ingredients can damage your cat’s red blood cells and lead to anemia. The risk remains even when they’re cooked or powdered, so make sure to keep your cat out of the kitchen while cooking.
Grapes and Raisins
Whether sprinkled into a salad or baked into a fruitcake, grapes and raisins pose a serious risk of kidney failure in cats. Because sensitivity varies from cat to cat, it’s best to avoid them entirely.
Unbaked Dough
Unbaked yeast dough can expand in the stomach, producing ethanol as it ferments. This can quickly turn a celebration into an emergency vet visit.
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
This popular sugar substitute is often found in “sugar-free” baked goods and candies. While dogs are most affected, xylitol can still cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and potential liver damage in cats.
Dungeness Crab & Rich Seafood Dishes
San Francisco’s crab season is iconic—but skip sharing that crab dip or cioppino with your cat. Shellfish dishes are often seasoned with butter, garlic, wine, and spices, which can upset your cat’s stomach or cause toxicity. Stick to your camper’s regular meals (or a special cat-safe treat) instead.
Keeping Cats Safe During the Holidays
Between parties, potlucks, and visiting guests, the holiday season can be overwhelming for even the most social cats. If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider giving your cat a quiet, stress-free stay at Pet Camp’s Cat Safari. Located right here in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, Cat Safari provides private accommodations, enrichment activities, and all the calm your cat deserves while you entertain.
Our counselors will make sure your cat enjoys a peaceful holiday surrounded by sunlight, fresh air, and attentive care far away from the kitchen chaos.
To reserve your cat’s holiday stay, contact us early! Our festive season fills quickly.