Veterinary Ireland has offered advice for this coming Christmas season, in order to ensure
the health and safety of feline and canine family members.
The veterinary representative body has warned that cats and dogs can be “at risk” from eating some human Christmas treats, and that doing so can make them feel ill, or even endanger their lives.
The most common human food that Veterinary Ireland advises against feeding dogs and cats is chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the more likely it is to affect pets and could result in poisoning.
There are chocolate treats available from some veterinary practices which are designed specifically for pets, and can be availed of at Christmas.
While turkey and ham are family favourites for Christmas dinners, pet owners are reminded that some dogs and cats are not often used to hot meals, and so a steaming hot piece of turkey, fresh out of the oven, can cause “discomfort” or stomach damage.
“Both dishes may also contain slivers of brittle bone, which can seriously damage your pet’s stomach and cause other gastro-intestinal issues,” Veterinary Ireland stated.
Veterinary Ireland
Other Christmas fayre such as stuffing, gravy, Christmas puddings and even mince pies can contain hidden ingredients which may also be dangerous.
Allium vegetables – members of the onion family, such as shallots, garlic and leeks – contain a toxin which is dangerous to dogs and cats, and which can cause damage to red blood cells, with cumulative effects.
Also, the kinds of dried fruit in Christmas desserts, along with macadamia nuts can poison pets.
Also the amount and type of food can matter to some pets, and while other rich, fatty foods
may not be toxic, eaten in large quantities can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, or even more serious gastro-intestinal problems, such as pancreatitis, which in severe cases can be fatal.
“Should your feline or canine family member start to show any signs of illness, being sick or having diarrhoea, becoming lethargic, shaking or having trouble with their breathing, then you should contact your own veterinary practitioner immediately,” Veterinary Ireland stated.
Veterinary Practices are open all-year round and will be on call for all emergencies, even on Christmas Day.