The Season’s Newest Trend: Warm Drinks Both You and Your Pet Can Enjoy

Content reviewed by Nell Ostermeier, D.V.M., CVA, FAAVA.

Pet parents should consult their veterinarian and trusted resources for food-recommendations specific to their dog or cat.

As the chilly winds begin to swirl and the leaves take their last bow, we're all searching for that perfect drink to snuggle up with. And let's be real - there's nothing better than sharing a moment with our soulful sidekicks.

So, let's cook up some warm, pet-friendly drinks that both you and your cat or dog can savor together. Our pets are our copilots through life, so it's only natural that we'd want to work them into our special rituals.

A word from our vets

The following recipes are meant to be given as a treat in moderation. They are not intended to replace nor supplement your pet’s current diet. Although the ingredients below are considered safe for pets, if you have any specific concerns (like your pet is known to have a sensitive stomach) or questions about suitability for your pet, you should always consult your veterinarian.

When introducing new foods, it's best to start with a small amount to observe how your pet tolerates the ingredients. We don’t want to upset their tummies!

Test the temperature before allowing your pet to sample these sippers. Truthfully, room temperature is best. Since this is a treat, we recommend a 1 to 4 ounce serving based on your pet's size. The smaller the pet, the smaller the portion (sorry, Chihuahuas!)

Now that we got those important reminders out of the way - let's get cooking!

The recipes:

Pumpkin Spice Delight

Everyone's all about that PSL life once fall hits. But did you know that pumpkin is super healthy for your pets too? Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, it's a win for both of you.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (make sure it's plain and not the pie mix!)

• A pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice (keep it minimal for your pet's safety)

• A drizzle of honey

Directions: Heat up the almond milk and whisk in the pumpkin puree and honey until it's nice and smooth. Once warmed, pour into two mugs, adding your pinch of cinnamon to each. Let it cool down a bit before serving to your pet. Comfy sweaters while sipping are highly recommended.

Golden Turmeric Latte

Turmeric isn't just a fancy word or trendy spice – it's packed with anti-inflammatory properties and has been used by many cultures for thousands of years! This means it’s good for both human joints and those of our curious copilots.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut milk

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

• A pinch of black pepper (this helps with turmeric absorption but omit from your pet’s bowl to be safe). You could also sub in ginger for your pup and then a pinch or 1/8 tsp would be fine!

Directions: Warm up the coconut milk, and then mix in the turmeric and black pepper (or ginger). Give it a good whisk to make sure everything's combined, then pour and serve. Remember, let it cool to pet-safe temperatures!

Warm Apple Cider Sipper

This drink is the epitome of fall, but let's make it pet-approved!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup 100% real apple juice with no added sugar

• 1 cup apple cider

• 1 pinch of cinnamon, 1 pinch of ginger (1/8 tsp) for your dog's cup

• A small cinnamon stick for you to stir your drink, leave the stick out of your pet’s bowl!

Directions: Warm the apple cider with the cinnamon stick in one cup. Once it's heated, drink away! For your pet, pour the 100% real, unsweetened apple juice in a bowl and add a pinch of cinnamon and ginger. No need to heat!

Cozy Carob “Hot Chocolate”

Missing hot cocoa on cold nights? This version is safe for pets and gives you those warm, fuzzy feelings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk

• 1 tablespoon of carob powder (It's a fantastic and safe alternative to chocolate! Feel free to substitute cocoa powder in your own cup)

Directions: Warm the almond milk, and then whisk in the carob powder until smooth. Let it cool down before sharing it with your pet. Marshmallows for the humans, perhaps?

Quick Reminder! While these drinks are all pet-friendly, always introduce new foods and drinks to your pet in moderation. Watch out for any allergies or sensitivities, and when in doubt, always consult your vet!

So next time you're wrapped up in your coziest blanket and are reaching for a warm drink, remember that your pet can join in on the fun. Sip on and stay snug!

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.