Avocado
Avocados are toxic to dogs and cats and should never be fed to them.
Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can damage specific cells in dogs and cats and may particularly affect the heart and respiratory system. Because of this, feeding avocados to pets is considered very dangerous — they are one of the foods that must be avoided at all costs.
If Your Pet Eats Avocado and Shows Any of These Symptoms, Visit a Vet Immediately:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Seizures
- Swelling of the body or legs
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Red gums
- Pale or bluish gums
How Is It Treated at the Vet?
Veterinarians will conduct tests and treatments based on your pet’s symptoms and condition. This may include blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound, and other examinations to assess how the avocado has affected their body.
Treatment options may include:
- Gastric lavage: If avocado remains in the stomach, the vet may remove it to help clear the digestive tract.
- Detoxification and medication: Support for toxin removal and water/electrolyte balance; in some cases antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be used.
- Ongoing monitoring: Follow-up blood tests or imaging to track internal status and decide on additional treatments as needed.
Summary
Avocado (including flesh, skin, pit, and leaves) can be dangerous to dogs and cats because of persin and potential GI and cardiopulmonary effects. Do not feed avocados to pets. If ingestion occurs and symptoms appear, seek veterinary care immediately.