Tamales are not recommended for pets. If an accidental taste occurs, remove wrappers first and offer only a tiny bite of plain unseasoned cooked meat. Keep wrappers secured in closed trash bins.
Tamales are made from masa dough (ground corn treated with lime) spread around a filling, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, and steamed. Prepared tamales are usually dense and savory.
Fillings vary widely and include shredded pork, chicken, cheese, beans, or sweet fruit mixtures. Masa is often mixed with lard for texture.
Fillings commonly use chili sauces, garlic, onion, cumin, and salt. Corn husks and banana leaf wrappers are not digestible and may become choking or obstruction hazards if swallowed.
