Bayside Animal Hospital

The holidays are an exciting time for both you and your pet, but they can also be dangerous. During this time of year certain things become accessible to your pet that may cause them harm. Here is a list of some common things you may have around your house during the holidays that could be hazardous to your pet.

CHOCOLATE
Depending on how much of it they ingest, chocolate can cause your pet to be come extremely sick and should be avoided. The chemical theobromine that is in chocolate can be fatal if a lot is eaten. It is slightly more common for dogs to eat chocolate rather than cats since cats tend to be more finicky but it is toxic to them too. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity are vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity and increased heart rate.

FOIL
Aluminum foil, commonly used to cover dishes during the holidays can often keep the scent of food and entice your pet. Both foil and plastic wrapping can cause intestinal blockages in your pet. The most common way that pets get a hold foil is by taking it out of the trash can or finding it on the table. Make sure to keep the garbage safely out of your pets reach.

FESTIVE PLANTS
Cats are known to enjoy nibbling on a plant or two in the household. Caution should always be taken when having house plants and pets sharing the same living space. During the holidays, lilies and poinsettias are common and while beautiful, should be kept far out of your pets way. Lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if they are ingested and of the two, are the most harmful plants. Poinsettias are very low on the toxicity level but can still cause vomiting and upset stomachs in your cat or dog.

GUM AND CANDY
While gum and candy are welcomed by both children and adults during the holidays, they can be serious threats to your pets. The common belief is that gum can cause intestinal blockages which is true, but the more dangerous aspect is the chemical Xylitol. Even when ingested in small amounts, this chemical can cause a fatal drop in your pets blood sugar. If you believe your pet has ingested gum or candy with this ingredient, immediately contact your veterinarian.

MISTLETOE AND HOLLY
Even though mistletoe and holly berries have a bitter taste, pets still may try to eat them. They can cause severe upset stomachs, as well as vomiting and diarrhea. If ingested numerous times or one large single dose, it can cause long term cardiovascular problems as well as lethargy.

WINE AND ALCOHOL
During the holidays, celebration usually accompanies wine or other alcoholic products. While tiny amounts will not hurt your dog or cat, your pet should never be allowed to drink large amounts of alcohol. Essentially it is toxic and can cause a coma or even death from respiratory arrest.

LEFTOVERS
While the idea of leftovers may excite your pet, caution should be taken if allowing them to partake. Turkey bones and turkey meat are no different in the eyes of your dog. Bones are serious problems in the digestive tract and can cause serious injury and death if they are not removed. If you suspect your pet got into your holiday leftovers or is acting lethargic after eating a meal with your family, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Bones aside, leftovers can also cause upset stomachs. While your pet may think the spicy, fatty and greasy foods that often show up around the holidays are great tasting, they can cause vomiting and diarrhea, which can make the holidays painful for both you and your pets.

DECORATIONS
Ornaments and other decorations like ribbon and tinsel are dangerous if ingested. Try to keep them out of your pets reach, even if that means hiding wrapping materials or packages when your pets are unsupervised. Ornaments can break, posing serious safety risks for your pets especially if they are swallowed. Ribbon and tinsel can cause serious stomach obstructions as well. If you catch your pet trying to eat or play with your decorations, make sure to intervine. Try to have their favorite toys ready to distract them.

CHRISTMAS TREE WATER
Often ignored, the green, plain Christmas tree can pose a bigger threat to your pets health than all of the decorations and extras. If you're family likes to get live pine trees for the season, it's important to make sure that you're pet does not come in contact with tree water. Often Christmas trees that are freshly cut down will still have the residue from being watered before cut. They will still seep the tree water, which may contain fertilizers and chemicals. It can also cause your pet to get sick from harvesting bacteria.

source: firstlinemag.com