Like all dogs, Cavapoos have specific dietary requirements and sensitivities. While there are many healthy and nutritious food options available to them, there are also some foods that can be harmful or even toxic and should be avoided. Understanding these foods is essential to the health and well-being of your beloved Cavapoo.
Toxic food
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, two stimulants that can have serious effects on Cavapoo’s nervous system, heart and kidneys. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, irritability, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and, in severe cases, seizures and death. Dark chocolate and baked chocolate have higher levels of theobromine compared to milk chocolate, which makes them more dangerous. For example, a few ounces of dark chocolate is highly toxic to a small Cavapoo.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, including Cavapoos. The exact mechanism by which they cause toxicity is not fully understood, but it is known that even small amounts of grapes or raisins can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, and loss of appetite within hours of ingestion. If left untreated, it can progress to kidney failure, which can be irreversible. A handful of grapes is enough to cause significant damage to Cavapoo.
Onion and garlic
Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to hemolytic anemia. This means that red blood cells break down, reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Symptoms may include weakness, pale gums, shortness of breath and, in severe cases, fainting. Whether raw, cooked, or powdered, Onions and garlic should be kept away from Cavapoos. Even adding small amounts to a meal or treat can have a cumulative effect over time.
xylitol
Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some baked goods. It is highly toxic to dogs. When Cavapoo ingests xylitol, it causes a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia. Symptoms include weakness, drowsiness, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. In severe cases, it can also lead to liver failure. A piece of chewing gum containing xylitol can be fatal to a small Cavapoo.
Foods that can cause indigestion
Dairy product
Many Cavapoos are lactose intolerant. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, and gas. Some dogs have difficulty digesting lactose in dairy products. While a small amount of plain yogurt may be tolerated by some Cavapoos because it contains probiotics, it’s best to avoid giving large amounts of other dairy products. In Cavapoo, for example, a bowl of milk can cause an upset stomach and loose stools.
High fat food
High-fat foods, such as fried chicken, bacon, and fatty cuts of meat, can cause pancreatitis in people with Cavapoos. The pancreas becomes inflamed, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Over time, repeated bouts of pancreatitis can cause permanent damage to the pancreas and affect Cavapoo’s overall health. A consistently high-fat diet increases the risk of developing this painful and potentially serious condition.
Spicy food
Spicy foods, including those with hot peppers or pungent spices, can irritate Cavapoo’s digestive tract. They can cause stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea. The capsaicin in chili peppers is responsible for the burning sensation and is especially uncomfortable for dogs. Even small amounts of hot sauce or spicy snacks can cause indigestion in Cavapoo.
Bone-containing food
Cooked bones
Avoid eating cooked bones, especially those from chicken and Turkey. When the bones are cooked, they become brittle and break easily. These fragments can cause damage to Cavapoo’s mouth, throat, esophagus, stomach and intestines. They can get stuck, cause suffocation, or puncture the digestive tract, leading to internal bleeding, infection, and serious health complications. For example, a small piece of cooked chicken bone can cause intestinal perforation if ingested.
Small bone
While some people believe raw bones are safe for dogs, small raw bones also pose risks. Small bones like chicken wings or necks can be swallowed whole or broken into sharp pieces when chewed, similar to cooked bones. Larger raw bones, such as bovine bone marrow, may be less likely to cause these problems if given under supervision, but they still carry some risk. Cavapoo may try to swallow a small piece of raw bone too quickly, causing suffocation or internal damage.
Processed food and junk food
Human junk food
Foods like potato chips, cookies, and fast food burgers are not suitable for Cavapoos. These foods are often high in salt, sugar and unhealthy fats. High salt levels can lead to excessive thirst and urination, and may also lead to high blood pressure in the long term. Sugar can cause dental problems and weight gain. Unhealthy fats can lead to obesity and related health problems. Cavapoo, who regularly eat human junk food, are at risk for a range of health problems, including heart disease and diabetes.
Processed meat containing additives
Processed meats that contain preservatives, nitrates and nitrites, such as hot dogs, sausages and deli meats, should be avoided. These additives may be harmful to Cavapoo’s health. They have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in dogs. In addition, the high salt and fat content in these processed meats can lead to the same problems as other high salt and fat foods, such as indigestion and obesity. Feeding Cavapoo a diet rich in processed meat can negatively affect his long-term health and longevity.
Unripe or moldy food
Unripe fruits and vegetables
Unripe fruits and vegetables are difficult for Cavapoo to digest. They can contain substances that can cause stomach upset and in some cases even be toxic. For example, unripe tomatoes contain solanine, which is harmful. Unripe apples may cause diarrhea. It is best to serve only ripe fruits and vegetables, in moderation. A small piece of unripe fruit can cause your dog an upset stomach.
Moldy food
Moldy foods, such as moldy bread, cheese, or fruit, may contain mycotoxins. These toxins can cause a variety of health problems for Cavapoos, including vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures and, in severe cases, liver damage. Even a small amount of moldy food can be dangerous. If you find mold on any food, it should be disposed of properly and kept out of the reach of your pet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing what foods Cavapoos should avoid is essential for their health and safety. By providing appropriate and safe dog food and treats, and keeping harmful foods out of their reach, you can help ensure your Cavapoo lives a long, healthy, and happy life. Regular veterinary visits can also help detect any potential problems related to diet early and allow for appropriate intervention.
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