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Feeding Avocados - Good or Bad?

  • 04/02/2010

It has been brought to my attention that there are differing opinions in regards to whether avocados are safe for dogs. See this extract from Wikipedia:

There is documented evidence that animals such as cats, dogs, cattle, goats, rabbits, rats, birds, fish, and horses[15][25] can be severely harmed or even killed when they consume the avocado leaves, bark, skin, or pit. The avocado fruit is poisonous to some birds, and the ASPCA and many other sites list it as toxic to many animals including cats, dogs, and horses[26]. Avocado is an ingredient in AvoDerm dog food[27] and cat food.[28] However, the ASPCA has declined to say whether this food is safe or not without knowing the details of how the avocado is processed.[29]

Avocado leaves contain a toxic fatty acid derivative known as persin, which in sufficient quantity can cause equine colic and, without veterinary treatment, death.[30] The symptoms include gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory distress, congestion, fluid accumulation around the tissues of the heart, and even death. Birds also seem to be particularly sensitive to this toxic compound. Negative effects in humans seem to be primarily in allergic individuals.


Please use avocados with care. I have never experienced any bad reactions to them with dogs, however you must take responsibility for your own choices.

If you have had any experiences, good or bad, please share them with us.

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