Pet Safety During the Holidays – While it may be the happiest time of the year, we also need to ensure that it’s the safest time, especially for our family pets. Unfortunately, many of our favorite decorations and treats can be toxic to dogs and cats. Ensuring your beloved pets are distanced from dangerous (to them) plants and foods welcome a happy- and safe- holiday for all.
Which holiday foods and plants are toxic to pets, and how severe are the consequences?
Though some may cause upset stomachs, vomiting, or diarrhea, others can lead to kidney failure, seizures, or even death.
Toxic Holiday Plants for Your Pet
Poinsettias often come to mind first, and while its leaf sap can cause nausea or vomiting, the taste is usually off-putting to consume large enough quantities to induce illness. However, poinsettias are commonly treated with pesticides and can be fatal- especially for puppies and kittens.
Mistletoe and holly (fresh and dried)- plants and berries- are highly toxic for dogs and cats. In addition to gastrointestinal distress, they can cause respiratory issues, seizures, and death.
Amaryllis is beautiful yet dangerous for dogs and cats. All parts of the plant: flowers, stalk, and bulb may cause gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, and/or tremors.
In addition to the risk of injury or choking from tinsel, lights, or ornaments, fresh Christmas Tree needles and sap can irritate pets’ mouths and stomachs or cause internal punctures if ingested. Additionally, even small amounts of mold and bacteria from the tree’s water can be highly toxic for dogs and cats.
Toxic Holiday Food for Your Pet
Beyond the festive decorations, our delicious holiday favorites can also cause stomach distress, allergic reactions, seizures, and death for our pets.
Although adults may build a higher tolerance during the holidays, even tiny amounts of alcohol can be fatal for pets. The same is true for caffeine; ensure chocolates and coffee are out of their reach. Even eggnog, with or without alcohol, can cause allergic reactions and stomach distress.
The aroma of bacon and ham can be alluring, but pork’s high protein content can cause pancreatitis in many dog breeds. Even our favorite garlic, onions, and chives (powdered or fresh) can damage our pets’ blood cells.
Before passing the unwanted fruitcake to your pets- know that raisins, grapes, nuts, and nutmeg can cause seizures, heart palpitations, and kidney failure.
Even though steak bones may be a treat for your pup, turkey bones are too fragile and can easily splinter and puncture the esophagus or intestines.
Pet Safety During the Holidays
While all of us at North Churton and Durham Animal Hospital love your pets and our visits with them, we never enjoy seeing them (and you) in distress. We know you love sharing favorite holiday treats with your beloved pets, but it’s safer and healthier for them to stick to their regular diet.
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