As you begin to dig into your food, your cat gives you the look. You know the one – where he stares at you like a child, purring and rubbing against your leg. But as much as you want to share the wealth of your plate, feeding him table scraps is not the way.

Table scraps are too fatty for the digestive systems of most animals and can lead to severe stomach upsets (and, in occasional cases, trigger a possibly fatal pancreatic inflammation).

To keep your pet safe this season, remember the following:

Chicken or turkey bones are highly dangerous; they can splinter and puncture the stomach or intestines.

Don't fill the pet's bowl with table scraps. Most are too fatty for an animal's digestive system.

Don't give your pet chocolate; it is toxic to animals.

Make sure to put garbage into tightly covered cans – to prevent your pet from giving into temptation and making a meal of your discards.

Call your vet if your pet shows signs of stomach upset like diarrhea or vomiting.