If you’ve ever enjoyed the goodness of mochi, you may have wondered “Can I share this treat with my dog? I’d say this from a place of love. No, dogs shouldn’t eat mochi.
Although this popular Japanese rice cake is a snack we enjoy so much, it’s not the same for our pets. While it may seem harmless, this dish can cause serious health problems for your pup. It’s a good thing you’re on this page, as we will tell you why you shouldn’t give your dog mochi and what makes it unsafe for them.
What is Mochi?
This meal is made from glutinous rice and pounded into a sticky dough which is then sweetened and it comes with various fillings like:
- Red bean paste
- Ice cream
- Fruits
Why mochi is not safe for dogs?
While the meal’s chewy and stretchy texture makes it more enjoyable for us, it’s the same one that makes it dangerous for your pup.
The stickiness can easily choke your pup especially if your pup isn’t equipped to handle such a meal. And if that’s not enough, the extra sugar, artificial sweeteners, or other ingredients can make your pup have tummy troubles or, worse, harm their health. We are talking about risking weight gain, diabetes, or tooth decay.
Moreover, if you fill your mochi with ice cream, I’d advise you to keep it away from your dog. Some dogs are lactose intolerant and your pup may be one of them, so you wouldn’t want a situation where they are struggling with diarrhea, gas or even bloating.
What happens if a dog eats mochi?
If your dog accidentally eats mochi, here are some risks you need to watch out for:
Choking: This meal’s texture can get stuck in your dog’s throat and make it hard for them to breathe or swallow. This can lead to:
- Gagging or coughing
- Difficulty in breathing and
- In severe cases, a life-threatening blockage
Digestive Problems: Even if your dog manages to swallow the mochi, their stomach may not handle it well. Common symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain or discomfort
Reactions: If the mochi contains dangerous ingredients like chocolate or xylitol, the consequences can be much more serious. Your dog may experience:
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- In severe cases, liver damage or failure (especially with xylitol)
What are the alternatives to mochi for my dog?
While mochi isn’t safe, there are plenty of treats that you can offer them instead:
- Cooked sweet potato or pumpkin
- Plain rice cake
- Homemade dog treats
What to do if your dog eats mochi?
If your dog gets into some mochi, don’t panic, here’s what you should do:
- Assess the Situation: Check how much mochi your dog ate and whether it contains any harmful ingredients like chocolate or xylitol.
- Watch for Symptoms: Look for signs of choking, gagging, or digestive problems such as vomiting or diarrhea.
- Contact Your Vet: If your dog starts showing signs of distress, call your veterinarian right away for advice.
What are the foods to avoid for my dog?
It’s easy to want to share your favorite snacks with your dog, but some of the foods we eat can be harmful or even deadly for them. Here are a few foods to always keep out of their reach:
- Chocolate: While delicious for us, chocolate contains theobromine and is harmful to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, seizures, or worse.
- Sweets with Xylitol: Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs and it can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, seizures, or liver failure.
- Chewy Candies: These can get stuck in your dog’s throat, causing choking, and their high sugar content or artificial additives can cause your pup’s stomach upset
Wrapping Up
As much as your dog may beg for a taste of mochi, avoid giving them any. To keep your pup healthy, stick to treats made just for dogs.
They’re not only safer but also formulated to give your pet the nutrition they need. Remember, when it comes to your dog’s health, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Read more: Can Dogs Eat Ricotta Cheese? A Dairy Dilemma
