Frequently Asked Questions

PlainPetFood draws on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's toxic and non-toxic food list, the Merck Veterinary Manual, AAFCO labeling standards, FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine guidance, and peer-reviewed veterinary literature. Each food entry is cross-checked against multiple sources before publication.

We expand and revise our food database on a rolling basis. When veterinary organizations issue updated guidance on a specific food — for example, reclassifying its safety status — we update our database within days. Each entry shows the date of its last review.

Yes — completely free. There is no registration, no subscription, and no paywall. Our only revenue comes from contextual display ads (Google AdSense). Advertisers do not influence which foods we cover or how we present safety data.

Each safety classification is grounded in veterinary literature and assigned conservatively — when sources disagree or toxicity is dose-dependent with a narrow margin, we err toward the more cautious level. PlainPetFood is not a substitute for veterinary advice; if your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian immediately.

Safe — generally fine in appropriate portions. Caution — small amounts only, with specific preparation required. Unsafe — meaningful health risks; avoid. Toxic — contains compounds that can cause serious illness or death (e.g. chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol for dogs). Always check the per-pet entry for portion guidance and species-specific notes.

Dogs and cats metabolize foods differently. For example, onions and garlic are toxic to both species but cats are roughly twice as sensitive by body weight. Cats also lack the enzymes to safely digest certain plant compounds that dogs tolerate. We list each species separately so you see the guidance specific to your pet.

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at (888) 426-4435 — they operate 24/7 (a consultation fee may apply). Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian. Have the food packaging on hand and know your pet's weight and approximate ingestion time.