Dangers of Yum Cha in Dogs: Risks & Safe Alternatives

by Renee Fong. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Nov 6, 2024

Dangers of Yum Cha in Dogs: Risks & Safe Alternatives

Introduction

Yum cha, also known as Chinese tea eggs or marbled tea eggs, refers to a snack made from preserved duck eggs that have been soaked in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices. The process involves boiling the eggs until they are cooked through, then covering them with a black tea-based liquid, and finally letting them marinate for several hours before serving. This traditional Chinese dish is often served as a casual snack or side dish, particularly during dim sum gatherings.

It is crucial to consider pet safety when introducing new foods to our furry friends. Pets have distinct nutritional needs that vary from those of their human counterparts, and consuming foods high in sugar, salt, or spices can be detrimental to their health. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when exposing your pets to foreign substances, including edible items like yum cha.

The purpose of this article is to provide a balanced exploration of the potential risks associated with feeding dogs yum cha versus safer alternatives and offer reassurance on safe handling practices for pet owners who still want to indulge their pets in this snack.

The Case for Concerns

Consuming yum cha can be toxic or cause adverse reactions in animals due to the high sodium content, especially if they have pre-existing kidney issues. The presence of sugar also poses a risk for dogs prone to diabetes or those with sensitive stomachs.

According to research conducted at the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, even mild consumption of large amounts of salty foods like yum cha can lead to serious complications in dogs, including:

Increased thirst levels
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue

When feeding a food with a potent flavor profile such as yum cha, our pets risk not only being poisoned but also developing allergies. Symptoms of canine allergy vary based on the allergen present, from skin conditions to acute digestive problems.

The consequences for owners can be dire if they unwittingly poison their dogs by giving them yum cha in excess: pet owners are left worrying about the health and well-being of their beloved pets, facing expensive veterinary visits or seeking help from a veterinarian to identify effective treatment options. This anxiety can easily develop into trauma, making owning an animal even more challenging than previously anticipated.

The Case for Reassurance

Most pet owners are aware that pets are different and require specialized knowledge when it comes to what to feed them so while feeding their dogs certain yummy foods like yum cha is not recommended since these foods may be poisonous to your dog. If you own a dog, there is nothing wrong with sharing yum cha at dinner with human family members but keep the food on the dinner table.

Here are some steps you can take to eat yum cha safely:

Prepare and serve foods only on our tables while keeping it away from pets
Make sure that the packaging for yummy food products has strict instructions to help pet owners avoid accidentally consuming a toxin. If needed, provide alternative snack options.