Keep your pet safe at Christmas - festive hazards
Here at Animal Friends, we’re all getting into the festive spirit. The Christmas tree has pride of place in the office and the tinsel is up. But as we all indulge ourselves over the Christmas season, we should remind ourselves what hazards can be around for our animal friends.
Food
Although we all know that chocolate is poisonous to our pets, many of us don’t realise why it is so dangerous. Chocolate contains a powerful stimulant which is similar to caffeine called Theobromine. This is a potent toxin which can cause many problems to your pet.
Signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, high temperature and an abnormal heart rhythm. If you think that your pet has been given, or in most cases, stolen chocolate, take them to the vet. Other poisonous foods such as raisins, sultanas, currants and grapes are all toxic to pets, and they are all common ingredients in festive cakes and pies.
We eat a lot of rich and delicious food during the festive season, but do not give any to your pets as it is usually too rich for cats and dogs to eat as part of a Christmas treat. Foods which are out of the ordinary can cause a serious condition call Pancreatitis. This is caused by the pancreas becoming inflamed, usually following a fatty meal. It causes severe stomach pains, vomiting, lethargy diarrhoea, and in severe cases, can even cause death.
Watch out for bones, as these can splinter and cause unlimited damage.
If your pet shows any adverse signs of health, then do not hesitate to take them to the vet.
Plants
It is not only food which can be a hazard to our pets during this time of the year.
Mistletoe and holly, both seasonal staples, are both poisonous to animals if their berries are consumed in large quantities.
Although it isn’t common for our pets to eat them, it has been known for our claims department to come across this kind of accident over the festive season. Symptoms of poisoning include excess salivating, vomiting, diarrhoea, and increased frequency of urination.
Additional Hazards
In addition to food and plants there are many other hazards around the house, especially if you have a cheeky puppy or an inquisitive cat.
Lights and tree decorations are commonly chewed or eaten by pets. These can leave cuts and scratches in the mouth if they are chewed or if they are swallowed can require surgical removal.
Ribbons and tinsel can cause problems, particularly with cats as they love to play with them, be aware that they are easily ingested. If this happens, then you must take your pet to the vet immediately.
It may be worth remembering that loud noises can panic your pet, such as crackers, party poppers and champagne corks.
Animal Friends’ Top Tips
- Keep all foods out of reach from pets.
- Holly, mistletoe and other plants can be hazardous if consumed; ensure they are placed somewhere that they cannot be eaten.
- Alcoholic beverages are poisonous to pets so keep them well out of their reach.
- Make sure the Christmas tree is well anchored so that your pet cannot pull it over.
- When opening presents, make sure that pets do not eat any wrapping paper.
- Remember elderly and nervous pets may require a quiet sanctuary to retreat from all the hustle and bustle.
- For peace of mind, check your local vet’s opening hours over the holiday period and have their phone number to hand just in case you need it.
The best way to ensure you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable festive season is prevention. In the worst case scenario, having a good pet insurance will mean that if your pet requires veterinary treatment, you will be able to provide the best possible care for your pet without the worry of the cost.
Pet related festive hazards are easily avoidable so just have fun and remember to be pet aware, and pet safe!
