In the lead up to Christmas, it’s important to remember that there are many dangers that can pose a risk to our pets. Here’s how us and our four- legged friends can enjoy it safely!

Chocolate

The chemical theobromine is found in chocolate and is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, or if they ingest lager amounts – agitation, hyper-excitability and tremors. The darker the chocolate, the more potent levels of theobromine become – with baker’s chocolate the most dangerous.

Avoid putting any chocolate on or under the Christmas tree, as the temptation might be too great for our furry friends.

Christmas pudding and mince pies

Grapes, currants, sultanas and raisins are toxic to dogs. Ingestion of even a small quantity can lead to kidney failure. Don’t forget this will include food items that contain dried fruits such as Christmas pudding and mince pies. Be aware that chocolate-coated raisins run the additional risk of chocolate toxicity.

Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives

Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives all belong to the Allium species of plants and can cause toxicity, whether uncooked or cooked. Initially there can be vomiting and diarrhoea but the main effect is damage to red blood cells, resulting in anaemia. This may not be apparent for several days after ingestion. They are poisonous to both cats and dogs.

Christmas Plants

Poinsettias can cause irritation to the mouth and stomach with salivation and sometimes vomiting.

The ingestion of holly berries may result in a stomach upset.

 Christmas tree/pine needles could cause a mild stomach upset, but the sharp tips might also cause soft tissue damage when chewed or swallowed.

Lillies are toxic to cats causing kidney failure.

Other Christmas items

Pets are naturally inquisitive and love to chew and play with things they shouldn’t – especially new and exciting items that appear around Christmas. Tinsel and Christmas decorations should be kept well out of reach of pets.

Batteries can be particularly dangerous; if chewed and swallowed they can cause chemical burns and damage to the intestines. Silica gel packets can also cause problems if eaten, so ensure they are kept safely away and don’t fall out of packaging whilst presents are being opened.

Bows and ribbons from nicely wrapped gifts can look very tempting to dogs and cats so it’s important to dispose of them safely as they could cause a blockage in the intestines if swallowed.

If you think that your pet has eaten any of the above, firstly stop them from eating anymore, and get in touch with us on 01606 880890 or 01606 717 969. Remember, the quicker toxicities are treated, the better the prognosis. Its also always really useful to bring evidence of what you think your pet has eaten i.e wrappers and packaging as it helps us calculate toxic doses and check other potentially harmful ingredients.

Hopefully this will help keep your pets safe over Christmas, but accidents do happen so please don’t hesitate to contact us for help and advice!