06/12/2024
The festive season is good fun for everyone, including our beloved dogs and cats. However, there are festive foods and plants which can cause problems for our animals. No one wants a sick animal companion, much less a frantic trip the emergency vet hospital.
Foods to avoid: chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats both. Eating it can cause kidney (renal) failure and can be life threatening for puppies/kittens or older animals. High fat foods can irritate their stomach and intestines resulting in diarrhea or vomiting. Human food is not good for our animals. If you want to give them a treat, get them a gourmet special dog or cat food that is designed for their bodies. They will have a delicious treat and you can relax knowing that they are safe. Alcohol is not healthy for any animal, so please don't leave half filled glasses around where dogs can take a few sips. Many other human foods are not healthy for animals, such as grapes or raisins.
Dangerous plants include LILLIES, which can be fatal to cats, winter crocuses, juniper, amaryillis (those beautiful plants which are often given as blooming gifts) and some palm trees. Mistletoe and holly plants are also highly poisonous, so its best to stick to artificial versions.
Christmas trees are usually pine or fir. These are not toxic to animals but can cause upset stomachs if eaten. Tree decorations such as small balls or tinsel are more dangerous, especially for cats who love to chase and possibly eat them.
Here is some more information if you re interested: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/christmas
