-by Dr. Beverly Wilkinson
We often think of dogs and cats as members of our families and treat them as such during the holidays. In fact, in many households, the pets get their own personalized stockings and gifts. As a veterinarian, I have seen my fair share of holiday emergencies which can make this magical time of year, less enchanting. To help ensure your pets survive the season without a trip to the veterinarian, let’s take a look at some festive decorations, plants, and foods that can become holiday hazards to our furry family members.
(The following are some hazards associated with the holidays and is not an exhaustive list.)
Most Common Holiday Hazards:
- Tinsel
Tinsel may add sparkle and charm, but it can be extremely dangerous if ingested. Cats are naturally curious, and the shiny tinsel dangling from the tree is irresistible to them. If a cat, or dog swallows the tinsel, it can cause serious health issues. The long, thin strands can become lodged in the intestines, leading to blockages and potential surgical emergencies. This can be a life-threatening situation. Instead, opt for pet-friendly decorations such as ornaments made of fabric or soft materials. These can still add a festive touch to your tree without posing a danger to your furry friends.
- Candles and Open Flames
Lit candles and open flames can pose a fire hazard if knocked over by curious pets. Always supervise pets around open flames and consider using flameless candles for a safer alternative.
- Electrical Cords
Holiday lights and decorations often come with electrical cords that can be tempting for pets to chew on. Keep cords secured and out of reach to prevent electric shock or injury.
- Plants
Decking the halls with yuletide plants can be a wonderful way to ring in the season. However, many common holiday plants, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach or opt for artificial alternatives.
- Christmas Tree Water
The water in the base of a Christmas tree may contain additives such as fertilizers or preservatives, which can be toxic to pets if ingested. It’s essential to cover the tree stand securely or use a tree skirt to prevent pets from accessing the water.
- Chocolate
Chocolate is a holiday favorite, but it can be your pet’s worst enemy. Theobromine, a compound found in chocolate, can cause symptoms from mild vomiting to severe seizures and, in extreme cases, heart failure. Dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder are the biggest offenders.
- Grapes and Raisins
These seemingly innocent fruits are tiny, kidney-destroying grenades for dogs. Tartaric acid is the toxic principle in grapes, raisins, and wine. Dogs are unable to excrete tartaric acid, so exposure can cause kidney failure. Cats, being pickier eaters, usually dodge this one, but you never know when curiosity might strike. Even a small amount can cause kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
- Xylitol
Xylitol is a common ingredient in sugar-free baked goods, gums, candies, some peanut butters, jellies, and jams. It can cause dangerous disruptions in insulin levels leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) with kidney failure not far behind. Symptoms like loss of coordination and seizures can appear frighteningly fast, sometimes in as little as 10 minutes.
- Onions, Garlic, and Chives
These staples of holiday cuisine can easily cause an upset stomach. Even worse, because they contain biosulphate, these ingredients can damage red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. Whether raw, cooked, powdered, or in a sneaky sauce, keep them off your pet’s plate. Symptoms include weakness, pale gums, and discolored urine.
- Wine and other Alcohol
Your pet does not need a beer or wine to celebrate the holidays. Just like grapes and raisins, wine has tartaric acid which can cause kidney failure. Alcoholic beverages and food products containing alcohol, even in small amounts, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma, and even death. Think twice before sharing that rum cake.
- Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can rise in a pet’s stomach, leading to bloating, pain, and potentially life-threatening stomach twisting. Plus, the fermentation process produces alcohol, so it’s a double whammy.
Some Signs of a Holiday Hazard Emergency
Although pets can’t talk, their body language and symptoms can speak volumes. Watch for:
- Hiding
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Seizures or tremors
- Lethargy or unusual hyperactivity
- Whining or a hunched posture (abdominal pain)
- Loss of coordination
What to Do When Disaster Strikes
If you have any concerns that your pet may have ingested something toxic:
- Don’t panic.
- Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately. Keep these numbers handy:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- Don’t induce vomiting unless instructed. Some substances cause more harm on the way back up.
Final Thought: Prevention is Best
The easiest way to avoid a holiday hazard is to keep anything dangerous out of your pet’s reach. Pets have a unique talent for finding forbidden items, so a little forethought and vigilance can keep the season safe. After all, we want their mischief to be charming, not alarming.
