Christmas with four-legged friends

Not only do we humans like all of this great, our pets also love it when we don't keep a watchful eye on it. However, they can quickly become a dangerous temptation. But why are our Christmas treats so dangerous?

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chocolate

It contains theobromine and sometimes caffeine, which are toxic to animals. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk. Even small amounts can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, restlessness, rapid heartbeats or seizures in dogs; in severe cases, it can even be life-threatening.

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Raisins & grapes

Raisins (and even grapes) can cause serious kidney damage in dogs, which in the worst case can be life-threatening. The exact cause has not yet been fully clarified, but it is assumed that certain substances in grapes/ raisins impair kidney function or have toxic effects on the kidneys. Even small amounts can be toxic to some dogs, while other dogs can also tolerate larger amounts without acute symptoms. Since sensitivity can vary significantly, every recording should be considered an emergency.

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xylitol /xylitol

Xylitol, a sugar substitute, is dangerous for pets, especially dogs, because it can drop their blood sugar extremely quickly (hypoglycaemia). Even small amounts can trigger insulin release, leading to sudden loss of energy, lethargy, impaired coordination or seizures. In some cases, xylitol may also cause liver damage.

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nuts and spices

In general, eating raw or spicy nuts or spices can lead to gastrointestinal problems, pancreatitis or poisonous reactions, depending on the type of animal, size and sensitivity.

Pets may show signs of poisoning such as weakness, trembling, vomiting, or hyperthermia of some types (particularly macadamia nuts). In addition, nuts are often very oily and can trigger gastrointestinal problems or pancreatitis.

Small amounts of cinnamon are generally not acutely poisonous, but it can cause gastrointestinal problems in some animals. Corrosive or spicy cinnamon products (such as cinnamon sticks or too much cinnamon in baked goods) can also irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can be toxic in larger amounts. Symptoms may include confusion, agitation, increased pulse, vomiting, or trembling. Poisoning is rare but potentially serious.

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Alcohol-containing drinks and yeast dough

Even small amounts can cause poisoning in animals (cramps, coordination problems, shortness of breath, hypoglycaemia, liver or kidney damage). Small animals are particularly sensitive; even tiny remnants of alcoholic drinks or food can be risky. Symptoms can occur within a short period of time and can be severe.

Yeast dough in the belly of a cat or dog can also lead to threatening alcohol in the animal while the still risen dough continues to ferment. The dough produces alcohol through fermentation. Large or swallowed amounts of dough can just as quickly contribute to life-threatening complications such as stomach dilation, occlusion, or pancreatitis.

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conclusion

Christmas is a cozy time, but dogs and cats should receive their species-specific treats. Chocolate, raisins, xylitol-containing products, nuts and alcoholic items should always be kept out of the reach of pets. In this way, humans and animals stay healthy and happy throughout the festive season. And should you ever need assistance, We are there for you and your loved one every day.

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