Animals – Holiday food hazards

The festive season is a time for sharing meals, treats and celebrations with family and friends. However, some foods that are safe for humans can be dangerous, or even deadly, to our pets. As your local veterinary clinic, we want to help you keep your furry companions safe this holiday season.

Chocolate and coffee

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs and cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which can affect your pet’s heart and nervous system. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous, even in small amounts. Signs of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, rapid breathing and, in severe cases, seizures or collapse.

Grapes, raisins and sultanas

Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Cats are less commonly affected, but should also avoid these fruits. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can include vomiting, lethargy and decreased appetite.

Onions, garlic and chives

These common cooking ingredients can damage red blood cells in both dogs and cats, leading to anaemia. All forms – raw, cooked, powdered or in sauces – can be harmful. Watch for weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing or dark-coloured urine.

Fatty foods and bones

Rich, fatty foods like turkey skin or ham can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious condition. Cooked bones, particularly chicken or turkey bones, can splinter and cause choking, internal injuries or intestinal blockages.

Sweeteners

Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, lollies and baked goods is highly toxic to dogs. It can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure. Even tiny amounts can be life-threatening.

Alcohol and nuts

Alcohol can depress the nervous system and cause vomiting, diarrhoea and even coma in pets. Macadamia nuts are particularly toxic to dogs, causing weakness, tremors and overheating.

Tips to keep pets safe
• keep all human food out of reach and avoid feeding table scraps
• remind guests not to give pets festive treats
• ensure garbage and recycling bins are secured

If your pet consumes a toxic food, contact your vet immediately. In urgent cases, you can also contact the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 for advice.

This holiday season, the safest treat for your pets is a little extra love and attention. Enjoy the celebrations, but remember that what’s on your plate may not belong on theirs. For advice or emergencies, our clinic team is here to help keep your animals healthy and happy.