Thanksgiving is the start of the holiday season where we might be tempted to feed our 4 legged friends scraps from the table. There are many pitfalls possible with this scenario.
Our family pets may be very sensitive to the fats and greases present in our food which can cause pancreatitis (an inflammation of the pancreas) which can cause vomiting and diarrhea and even more severe illness.
Here is a list of potential foods/ingredients that may cause problems for our pets:
Raw/undercooked meat, eggs, bones – can contain bacteria like salmonella or E. coli. It can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Raw eggs can interfere with absorption of Vitamin B that can cause skin and coat problems. Bones can splinter and cause obstruction in the intestinal tract.
Chocolate/coffee/caffeine – contain methylxanthines which can cause vomiting and diarrhea, increased drinking and urination, and in sufficient quantities cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures
Yeast Dough – especially unbaked can cause gas accumulation and pain, the risk diminishes after cooking
Macademian nuts – often found in cookies and candies, can cause weakness, vomiting and tremors
Grapes/raisins – can cause kidney failure in sufficient quantities
Onions/garlic/cloves – can cause vomiting and diarrhea and red cell damage (especially in cats)
Milk – can cause vomiting and diarrhea
Salt – can cause vomiting and diarrhea. In great excess can cause tremors/seizures and even death.
Xylitol – used as a sweetener in sugar free products, can cause low blood sugar and liver failure.
To ensure a healthy and happy Holiday for you and your pet just keep it simple. Give them their regular healthy and balanced dog food diet with occasional dog treats topped off with a lot of hugs and kisses. Your pet will love you for it.