caneat.petIf pet ate it

Data Sources & Methodology

Every food safety verdict on CanEat.pet is based on guidance from veterinary and animal welfare authorities. No verdicts are based on opinion, anecdote, or general internet sources. Below is a full list of our primary references.

Primary Sources

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is the leading authority on animal poisoning in North America. It operates a 24/7 emergency hotline (888-426-4435) and maintains an extensive database of toxic substances for companion animals. Our danger and caution verdicts for dogs and cats are cross-referenced against ASPCA APCC published guidance.

Merck Veterinary Manual

The Merck Veterinary Manual is a comprehensive veterinary reference published by Merck & Co., written and reviewed by veterinary professionals. It is widely used by practicing veterinarians worldwide. We use it to verify mechanisms of toxicity, symptom profiles, and safe dose thresholds for foods where detailed clinical data exists.

AKC Canine Health Foundation

The American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Health Foundation publishes dog health and nutrition guidance reviewed by veterinary professionals. We reference AKC guidance particularly for breed-specific considerations and serving size recommendations for safe foods.

PetMD

PetMD is a veterinary-reviewed online resource with an editorial team of licensed veterinarians. We use PetMD as a secondary cross-reference for foods where ASPCA and Merck guidance is limited or ambiguous.

Editorial Process

Each food entry in our database was researched individually against the sources above. The process for each entry:

  1. Look up the food in ASPCA APCC toxic plant/food lists and published case data.
  2. Cross-reference with Merck Veterinary Manual for mechanism and symptom detail.
  3. Assign a verdict: Safe (no known toxicity), Caution (safe in small amounts or with preparation), or Danger (toxic, avoid entirely).
  4. Write a plain-English summary of why the verdict applies and what symptoms to watch for.

The database was last reviewed in September 2025. If you spot an error or have a source correction, please contact us.

Disclaimer

CanEat.pet is an informational resource, not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. See our full veterinary disclaimer.

Emergency Resources