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Foods that are dangerous for pets at Christmas
Christmas is a time for cozy moments and good food – but some foods can be dangerous for dogs and cats.
Toxic Christmas food for dogs
Is chocolate toxic to dogs?
Chocolate is toxic to dogs. It contains theobromine – a substance that dogs have difficulty breaking down. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems such as vomiting, restlessness, heart problems and, in the worst case, death. So remember – chocolate should always be kept out of reach of dogs!
Are raisins dangerous for dogs?
Raisins are dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts of raisins or grapes can cause acute kidney failure – and your dog may start vomiting, have diarrhea, or show signs of stomach pain. It’s best to avoid raisins altogether.
Are onions and garlic dangerous for dogs?
Onions and garlic are toxic to dogs. They contain substances that can destroy your dog's red blood cells - which can lead to anemia. Even small amounts can be harmful - so avoid feeding your pet foods with onions or garlic.
Are greasy food and bone remains dangerous for dogs?
Fatty foods and leftover bones can be dangerous for dogs. This can lead to inflammation of the pancreas – which can be painful and dangerous. Bones can also splinter and damage the intestines – so avoid giving your dog leftover bones from Christmas dinner.
Are nuts dangerous for dogs?
Nuts – especially macadamia nuts – are dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, tremors and in some cases serious health problems. Avoid giving your dog nuts – they can be toxic.
Is dough dangerous for dogs?
Dough is dangerous for dogs – especially yeast dough. When a dog eats dough, it can start to ferment in its stomach – which can lead to severe stomach pain, vomiting and choking. In addition, the yeast can produce alcohol – which can lead to poisoning. Be careful not to let your dog have access to dough.
Is alcohol dangerous for dogs?
Alcohol is very dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to severe poisoning, difficulty breathing, coma and, in the worst case, death. Make sure to keep alcoholic beverages away from your dog – especially during the holidays.
Toxic Christmas food for cats
Is chocolate toxic to cats?
Chocolate is toxic to cats. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause symptoms such as vomiting, agitation, and seizures. Cats are generally more picky eaters than dogs when it comes to food – but it is still important to make sure that chocolate is not available to your cat.
Are onions and garlic dangerous for cats?
Onions and garlic are toxic to cats. They contain substances that can destroy a cat's red blood cells – which can lead to anemia. Even small amounts can be harmful – so avoid feeding cats food that contains onions or garlic.
Are nuts dangerous for cats?
Nuts – especially macadamia nuts – are dangerous for cats. They can cause symptoms such as vomiting, weakness and tremors. It is best to avoid giving cats any type of nuts – as they can be harmful to their health.
Is dough dangerous for cats?
Dough is dangerous for cats – just like it is for dogs. When a cat eats dough, it can start to swell in its stomach – which can lead to severe stomach pain and choking. In addition, the dough can produce alcohol – which is very dangerous for a cat’s health.
Is alcohol dangerous for cats?
Alcohol is dangerous for cats. Even small amounts can lead to poisoning, difficulty breathing, coma and, in the worst case, death. Make sure to keep alcoholic beverages away from your cat – especially during the holidays when alcohol is more readily available.
Christmas should be enjoyable for everyone – including your four-legged friends! Provide safe alternatives: If you want to pamper your pet this Christmas, give them treats made especially for animals. At A-Vet Shop you will find a large selection dog treats og cat treats.
Poisonous Christmas plants for pets
Several popular Christmas plants can be dangerous to pets – especially dogs and cats. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:
- Poinsettia: Can irritate the mouth and stomach – and cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs.
- Amaryllis: The entire plant – especially the bulb – can cause vomiting, tremors, and heart problems.
- Lilies: Highly toxic to cats – can lead to acute kidney failure.
- Hyacinths and tulips: The bulbs contain substances that can cause stomach pain and vomiting.
- Mistletoe: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea and in rare cases serious poisoning.
- Holly: The berries are poisonous and can cause severe stomach upset and poisoning.
Tips for safe Christmas plants: To protect your pets – keep poisonous Christmas plants out of reach or choose artificial alternatives.
Is the water in the Christmas tree stand dangerous for pets?
Yes – the water in the base of your Christmas tree can be dangerous for pets. It can contain pesticides, chemicals and bacteria that can cause stomach upset or poisoning. To protect dogs and cats, cover the water with plastic or use a protective tree guard.
Safe Christmas plants for dogs and cats
Do you want risk-free Christmas decorations? Here are some safe options:
- Succulents: Most succulents – like echeveria – are safe and decorative.
- Ferns: Green and animal-friendly Christmas decorations.
- Artificial plants: Gives a Christmas feeling without the risk of poisoning.
Dangers of Christmas ornaments and decorations
Christmas decorations create a magical atmosphere – but for curious pets, they can also be a source of danger.
Christmas decorations that can harm pets
Certain types of Christmas decorations can be harmful to both dogs and cats:
- Shatterable Decorations: Glass balls and other fragile ornaments can shatter and cause cuts to the paws or mouth.
- Lights and wiring: Pets that chew on electrical wires can be electrocuted.
- Artificial snow: Spray or powder for decorations can be toxic if ingested.
Glitter and Ribbons: Why Cats Love Them (And Why They're Dangerous)
Cats love glitter, ribbons, and other shiny things – but these can be deadly to both cats and dogs.
- Glitter threads: If your cat (or dog) swallows glitter, it can cause serious intestinal damage that requires surgery. Glitter threads can also be difficult to get out of the intestines – and can cause a blockage.
- Gift bands: Curious cats and dogs can easily chew on gift ribbons which can get stuck in their intestines and lead to serious health problems. Instead, choose fabric bands that are safer for the pets.
Tips for avoiding hazards: Keep glitter, ribbons, and small decorations away from your pets – or opt for safer alternatives like fabric ribbons or decorations without small parts. This reduces the risk of health problems and keeps your pets safe.
