Navratri Foods Your Pets Should Avoid

Navratri is a happy time in many homes. We enjoy fasting snacks and tasty dishes. But what we eat is not always safe for our pets. During these nine days our dogs and cats feel curious about food. They sit near us hoping for a bite. As loving owners we must be careful.

Some Navratri treats contain ingredients that are not good for animals. A small piece can upset their stomach and even make them very sick. Just because food is healthy for us does not mean it is safe for pets which is why we should know which items to keep away from them.

It is common in many houses that family members share food with their pets. But Navratri food has elements like spices or heavy flours that can harm pets. Learning about these foods is the best way to keep our pets safe during the festival.

In Navratri kitchens we see laddoos and halwa made with sugar. These might look harmless but they are bad for pets. Sugar can cause tooth problems and lead to weight gain. Many sweets also have ghee or oil which can upset a pet’s tummy. Some sweets include nuts like cashews and almonds which if consumed in large amounts can cause vomiting or even choking.

Pets cannot handle sugar the way humans can. Even a small portion can make them feel weak or restless. Dogs especially find it hard to digest sugar and fatty sweets. This is why we should never drop sweets under the table for them during puja feasts.

Instead of sweets we can keep pet treats on hand. That way our pets also feel included when the family is enjoying special food.

During Navratri many people eat sabudana khichdi or vada. Sabudana seems simple but it is not healthy for pets. It has too much starch which pets cannot digest well and end up with bloated or upset stomach.

People also love crunchy potato chips and fried wafers during fasting which are salty and oily. Salt is very harmful for both dogs and cats as excess salt can make them very thirsty and even damage their kidneys.

Giving fried food to pets is dangerous because it makes them tired and uneasy so always keep these snacks high on the table where pets cannot reach.

Milk and curd are common in Navratri dishes. We also prepare paneer for fasting meals. But not all pets can digest dairy. Many dogs and cats are lactose intolerant. This means their stomach cannot break down milk sugar.

When pets eat dairy they may get loose motion or vomiting. Too much paneer can also cause weight gain. It may seem harmless but repeated feeding of milk products can make pets weak.

If you want to give a cool snack you can freeze plain water into ice cubes. Pets find chewing ice fun and it is safe for them. This keeps them busy while the family eats curd-based dishes.

Navratri food often uses rock salt known as sendha namak. Some people think it is safer than regular salt. But for pets any type of salt in high amounts is harmful. Pets’ bodies work different from humans. They need their meals plain without extra taste.

Chilies, pepper and other spices can burn their throat. These can also make them cough or sneeze. Onion and garlic are very unsafe too. Even a small amount can damage a dog’s red blood cells.

Keeping spicy food away from pets is the best way to prevent sudden health problems so be alert during family meals because curious pets often lick plates.

In Navratri plates we often add peanuts, raisins, dates and pumpkin seeds. These are good for energy but not for pets. Raisins and grapes can damage a pet’s kidneys. Peanuts and seeds have natural oils that can cause stomach upset.

Many dry fruits are hard and may get stuck in a pet’s throat or teeth. Over time oily nuts can also cause pancreas issues in dogs. Cats too should never be given dry fruits as they do not digest them at all.

It may seem loving to share prasad made of dry fruits but it can be harmful. Instead offer your pet safe fruit like apple slices or banana pieces but always without seeds.

Festivals are meant to bring joy for the whole family including pets. But joy can turn into worry if they eat unsafe food. Navratri dishes are delicious for humans but not healthy for animals. From sweets and fried snacks to dairy and nuts most festive food should stay out of their reach.


As responsible owners we must set aside pet-friendly snacks during the festival. This simple step makes sure pets feel included and remain healthy. When pets are safe the whole family can enjoy Navratri celebrations with peace of mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can dogs eat coconut?
   
   Coconuts can be eaten by dogs as its not harmful for them.
2. What is the safest human food for dogs?
   
   Apples are the safest human food for dogs especially during Navratri.
3. Can cats eat onion and garlic?
   
   No, onion and garlic are toxic substances for cats.