Almonds are hard, oil-rich seeds from orchard-grown almond trees, sold raw, roasted, sliced, or ground into almond butter and flour for snacks and baking. They provide fat, protein, vitamin E, and minerals but are calorie-dense, and the firm texture and high fat may trigger vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis in sensitive pets. Offer only tiny plain pieces, if at all, and avoid salted, flavored, or chocolate-coated almonds.
Whole almonds are sold raw or roasted with skins on, while blanched almonds have the brown skin removed for a milder taste. Almonds are also made into almond butter, flour, and meal for baking. Sliced or slivered almonds are common salad and dessert toppings. Almonds are often used in trail mix. Seasoned snack almonds may include salt, sugar, smoke flavor, or spice blends that add sodium and irritants. All of these forms are calorie-dense.
Because the nuts are small and slippery, it is easy for a pet to swallow them whole. The crunchy texture may be difficult for some pets to chew thoroughly.
