Advent #4 - Beware of Christmas food

Christmas is the time to enjoy food! But make sure you aren’t feeding your pets things that you wouldn’t normally.

Although they may seem to enjoy Christmas food as much as we do, some foods are poisonous to animals...

• Splinters of poultry bones are dangerous to dogs and cats, as they can become stuck in their throats or even pierce their intestinal tract.
  
• Grapes, raisins and sultanas – contain a toxin which can cause kidney failure.
  
• All chocolate, but the darker the more dangerous as it contains theobromine which can cause seizures, coma and heart failure.
  
• Stuffing contains onions and garlic which can destroy red blood cells causing life-threatening anaemia.
  
• Seeds and stones from apples, apricots, cherries, peaches and plums – contain a cyanide compound which can be poisonous.
  
• Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and peppers – contains toxins which could be deadly for horses.
  
• Nutmeg: High levels of nutmeg can result in seizures, tremors, central nervous system problems and even death.
  
• Gravy containing high levels of salt can cause kidney problems if give in excess.
  
• Alcohol can cause deadly poisoning. Cats can be particularly attracted to cocktails containing cream such as White Russians and eggnog.

If you are concerned that your animal might have eaten something that has disagreed with them, call your local Vet right away.