As the year winds down and the festive season arrives, many of us are busy preparing meals, decorating the house and celebrating with family and friends. Our pets, of course, are often right underfoot, hoping for dropped snacks or a sneaky taste of whatever is on the table. But this time of year brings a few seasonal hazards that are easy to miss.
Many traditional Christmas foods can be dangerous for pets. Items such as grapes, raisins and sultanas, often found in puddings, fruit mince pies and fruit cakes, are toxic even in small amounts. Chocolate, macadamias, cooked bones and alcohol can also cause serious illness, so it’s best to keep these well out of reach.
Even foods that aren’t strictly ‘toxic’ can still cause problems. Rich, fatty dishes like ham, crackling, gravy and roast meats are a common cause of gastrointestinal upsets over the holidays. In some cases, they can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Sticking to a pet’s usual diet and avoiding table scraps is the safest way to prevent trouble.
Leftovers sitting out in warm weather, skewers, string from roasts and festive decorations can also pose risks if chewed or swallowed. A quick tidy-up after meals and keeping bins secure can help avoid accidental snacking.
With a little planning and awareness, our pets can enjoy the festive season alongside us – safely and comfortably, without any unwanted trips to the vet.
– DR CASSIE O’CALLAGHAN, HILLS DISTRICT VET
