Christmas may be one of the most festive times
of the year, but this holiday is one of the most dangerous times
for pets. Treats, plants, and other items found in your home or
yard may be irresistible to your pet, often resulting in more emergency
visits to the vet's office, which is probably not the place you
would like to spend your time during the holidays. Use extra caution
to keep your pets healthy and safe during the holidays. Below is
a list of some of the most common hazards pets may face during this
time of the year.
Many household plants popular during the holidays are poisonous
to dogs and cats. These include poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and
amaryllis. Always keep these plants out of your pet's reach or away
from your home.
Treats can also be dangerous. Never give chocolate to a pet as it
is one of the most toxic substances a pet can consume. It contains
theobromine, a substance similar to caffeine. Even small amounts
of theobromine can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures,
rapid heartbeats, coma, muscle tremors, and even death.
In addition to chocolate, avoid giving nuts to pets as nuts pose
a possible choking hazard and can cause a severe intestinal upset.
Also, avoid feeding anything containing sugar, as excessive sugar
can upset pets' insulin levels and lead to diabetes. Plastic or
aluminum candy wrappings are also dangerous. Consumption can cause
intestinal upset or even an intestinal obstruction. Alcohol can
also prove toxic to pets.
If you feel that your pet deserves an extra special treat for the
holidays, stick with healthy, all
natural treats made specifically for pets.
Many decorative items are found throughout the house during the
holidays. Keep pets away from tinsel, Styrofoam, and small parts
from Christmas tree ornaments as they can cause obstructions in
the gastrointestinal tract. Snow spray can cause problems if sprayed
into the mouth and inhaled. Also, do not allow your pets to play
with ribbons and yard, and refrain from putting these items around
your pet's neck. If you want to decorate your pet, invest in a holiday
collar.
By considering your pet's safety, you can prevent potential disasters
and reduce the chance of spending your holiday making an emergency
visit to your vet.
***If you suspect that your pet has consumed any of the items discussed
in this article, please immediately contact your veterinarian. Your
vet can give you the appropriate advice.
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