We all love a good avocado toast, right? While avocados are a superfood for us humans, they’re a completely different story for our furry friends. The problem lies in a toxin called persin, which is found in the fruit’s flesh, skin, and pit. For dogs, this “healthy” snack can actually be quite dangerous.
Where is the toxin found?
Persin is present in both the avocado flesh and the pit, so you definitely want to keep both far away from your pup.
If you’re an avid gardener and toss your kitchen scraps into a compost bin, make sure it’s secure! You don’t want your dog scavenging any avocado remains. And just a heads-up: cats are also at risk from this toxin.
What does persin do?
The real danger of persin is that it can lead to heart failure. It specifically targets and damages the heart muscle, which can unfortunately be fatal.
While the flesh contains a relatively small amount of the toxin compared to the pit, the pit poses a double threat: it’s packed with persin and is a major choking hazard that can cause a serious intestinal blockage if swallowed.
What should I do if my dog ate an avocado?
If you catch your dog snacking on an avocado, try to figure out exactly how much they ate. Every dog reacts differently based on their size and health. Your best bet is to call your vet immediately. They’ll likely give your pup something to induce vomiting and will know exactly how to handle the situation.
Pro tip: Just because something is a treat for us doesn’t mean it’s safe for our pets. To play it safe, it’s always best to stick to high-quality dog food and treats specifically made for them!