Christmas has once again snuck up on all of us!
With a much needed break coming we would like to remind everyone about the dangers of sharing our ‘Human’ food with our pets during the Christmas break, or at any time. Whilst there are foods that our four legged friends are able to enjoy with us, these foods usually aren’t on the table for Christmas day. These foods can cause harm to your pets and may results in an Emergency visit to your vet, which I bet isn’t how you would like to spend your Christmas break.
Some of the foods to make sure your cat doesn’t get into include:
- Milk, cheese and dairy. Cats are lactose intolerant so they are unable to ingest dairy products, it often gives them indigestion and constipation or diarrhoea.
- Chocolate is toxic to cats and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, heart problems, muscle tremors and seizures.
- Alcohol is very toxic and even small amounts can have severe effects to their brain and liver.
- Cooked bones can splinter when being chewed and digested and cause internal damage.
- Artificial sweeteners can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels and the onset of hyperglycaemia.
- Macadamia nuts can make your cat become lethargic, vomiting, hyperthermia and muscle tremors.
Some of the foods to keep your dog’s away from include:
- Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, heart problems, muscle tremors and seizures.
- Grapes and Raisins are highly toxic and not easily digestible for dogs. They can cause vomiting and dehydration.
- Garlic and Onions can cause gastrointestinal issues if eaten in large volumes.
- Alcohol is very toxic and even small amounts can have sever effects to their brain, liver and kidneys.
- Cooked bones can splinter when being chewed and digested and cause internal damage.
- Artificial sweeteners can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels and the onset of hyperglycaemia, liver problems and seizures.
- Macadamia nuts can make your cat become lethargic, vomiting, hyperthermia and muscle tremors.
We recommend purchasing cat and dog friendly treats that yourself and children can give the throughout the festivities instead sharing your own sweet treats with them. These can be purchased from your local Vet Clinics or Pet Stores. Alternatively, you could visit your local butcher for any uncooked bones that your dog will love.
If your pet has unfortunately eaten something they shouldn’t have, it is best to contact your vet as soon as possible so they can assess the situation. If you have any questions please feel free to give our friendly team a call on 07 4987 6800.