The Holiday Season is just around the corner and with it comes the joy of celebrating with family and friends. Pets are also part of the festivities and may receive yummy treats for the occasion. While it’s common knowledge that dogs shouldn’t be given chocolate, there are some unexpected items that can be just as harmful. Here is a list of holiday foods to avoid feeding pets:
Salty and Fatty Foods
Turkey skin, ham, and gravy have a very high-fat and salt content. They can be hard for your pet to digest and can cause vomiting or diarrhea.
Bones
You may want to feed your dog a bone for Christmas and while raw bones are mostly fine, cooked bones should be avoided as these can splinter and cause internal injury.
Nuts
Some nuts like unsalted peanuts, roasted cashews, hazelnuts, and pine nuts in small quantities are safe for your pets. Other nuts like almonds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, pistachios, and Brazil nuts should be avoided.
Onions and Garlic
All members of the onion family or closely related such as green onions, shallots, garlic, etc. contain components that can damage red blood cells in cats and dogs. Eating only a small amount can cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Alcohol
This seems like common sense, and while you may not be giving your dog alcohol, drinks are often left unattended at family gatherings. Holiday drinks tend to be sweet, and your inquisitive pet could end up gulping down your eggnog or even your rum-soaked Christmas pudding.
Grapes and Sultanas
Grapes and sultanas can cause kidney failure in dogs. The initial signs of poisoning are hyperactivity and vomiting. Make sure to always keep all desserts and fruit baskets out of the reach.
You may have known all of these and are aware of what your pet should or should not eat, but don’t assume everyone does. The holiday season is about gathering with family and friends so let them know to avoid feeding your pets table scraps or too many treats.
If you have any questions, we are here to help. If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, contact us immediately at 02 9416 1300.

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