The holiday season is full of delicious treats, family gatherings, and festive meals. While it’s easy to want to share your holiday goodies with your pets, some foods can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. Understanding which foods pose the biggest risk can help you keep your furry friends safe this season. If your pet shows signs of distress, call Norgate Animal Hospital at (604) 980-2222 immediately.
Chocolate and Cocoa Products
Chocolate is one of the most well-known hazards for pets, particularly dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to animals. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous because they contain higher concentrations of these compounds. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, or seizures.
Grapes, Raisins, and Currants
Grapes, raisins, and currants are common in holiday desserts like fruitcakes and stuffing. In dogs, these fruits can cause sudden kidney failure. Symptoms can include vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, and changes in urination. Because toxicity levels vary, it is safest to avoid giving any amount to pets.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives
These flavorful ingredients are staples in many holiday dishes, but they are harmful to both cats and dogs. Compounds in onions and garlic can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms may appear a few days after ingestion and include weakness, pale gums, vomiting, and rapid breathing. Even powdered forms used in gravies or seasoning blends can be dangerous.
Alcohol
It may seem obvious, but alcohol is extremely dangerous for pets. Even small amounts of wine, beer, or holiday cocktails can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, and respiratory issues. Always ensure alcoholic beverages are stored safely out of reach.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts, often found in holiday cookies and desserts, can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia in dogs. Cats are less commonly affected, but it is still best to avoid offering any type of nut to your pets.
Xylitol-Sweetened Treats
Many sugar-free gums, candies, and baked goods contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can trigger a dangerous insulin release, resulting in hypoglycemia. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and in severe cases, liver failure.
Fatty Foods and Bones
Rich holiday foods like turkey skin, ham, and gravy can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition. Additionally, cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Avoid feeding pets scraps directly from the holiday table.
How To Protect Your Pet This Holiday Season
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Keep harmful foods out of reach and educate family and guests about pet safety.
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Offer pet-friendly treats and meals to prevent temptation.
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Know the signs of poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and difficulty breathing.
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If your pet shows any concerning symptoms, contact Norgate Animal Hospital immediately at (604) 980-2222. Early intervention can save lives.
The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time to be mindful of what our pets consume. By keeping dangerous foods away and monitoring your pet closely, you can ensure a safe and happy holiday for everyone. When in doubt, contact Norgate Animal Hospital for advice or emergency care.
