10/12/2020
Holiday Treats Aren’t for Everyone
No doubt your house will smell like a wonderland of amazing treats this holiday season. And you may have a pup flashing you puppy dog eyes or a cat ready to sneak a treat. You will absolutely be tempted to spoil your pets but sharing your meal can have unfortunate consequences.
Here are a few holiday foods that are dangerous for your furry friends and family.
Various Types of Nuts
Macadamia nuts and pistachios are extraordinarily rich in fat and can cause pancreatitis, as mentioned above. Additionally, macadamias contain a toxin that can case neurological issues for your pets. Add to the list of nuts dogs and cats should not eat almonds, walnuts, and pecans.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine; both are toxic to cats and dogs. It can be tempting to leave out candy dishes for guests just know they can be irresistible to dogs particularly.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting and hyperactive behavior often followed by diarrhea. After a 24 hour period, your pet may become anorexic, lethargic and depressed. Ultimately, the kidneys can fail. So although you may be tempted to slip your pooch that fruit cake from your aunt, the one you can’t stomach...don’t do it.
Poultry Bones
Cooking causes bones to dehydrate and become brittle. Making them easy to splinter, which could puncture the stomach or intestines. As soon as you carve and clear the table dispose of the carcass in a container that cannot be reached or knocked over.
High Fat Foods
Many holiday foods, like macadamia nuts, pistachios, turkey skin and gravy, sweet potato casserole, eggnog and prime rib are high in fat and hard on your pet’s digestive system. They can cause pancreatitis, the symptoms of which can be vomiting, diarrhea, and Fatigue.
Alcohol
Alcohol poisoning is a serious risk for your pets, with their smaller size and lower tolerance, it is not much different than giving it to a toddler alcohol. Signs that your pet may have alcohol poisoning is staggering, decreased reflexes, slowed breathing and even cardiac arrest. Keep them safe by ensuring you and your guests keep any alcoholic drinks well out of their reach.
Onions
Onions contain thiosulphates which can cause red blood cells to burst in cats and dogs and can lead to hemolytic anemia. Onions can have severe affects. Symptoms to watch for include shortness of breath, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg can cause seizures, tremors, and central nervous system issues. In severe cases, shock and even death.
Here is the good news your dogs and cats can enjoy a bit of turkey, plain sweet potatoes, green beans, and mashed potatoes. It is best to set this aside while preparing and with the least amount of seasoning.
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Wanda Waddell