December 29, 2014

Treat versus Poison

It’s that time of the year when we see kids with more chocolate and treats, and guess what our four-legged friends see the opportunity! Maybe the kids will also feed the pets some things that they feel is a treat, when in fact, it’s more of a poison for the pets. The last thing you need or want is a trip to the vet because Johnny or Jenny fed the pet something that isn’t good for them. Some treats can be toxic for pets.

About Pet Digestion and Dietary Needs

Animals have evolved to need certain diets, and their diets do not match those of their human counterparts. Pet food contains all the vitamins and items they need to stay healthy. Even some of our clients who offer the raw diet have seen this diet take time as the pet’s stomach may take time to get used to the ingredients. Digestion problems can lead to messes inside the house.

Sometimes your dog will have vomiting, flatulence, pain, dehydration, pancreatitis and digestive tract inflammation. These acute issues can possibly lead to more severe illnesses or even death. It’s best to make sure you know what your dog is getting into around the house and educate children to not feed pets anything but their pet food. Here is a more exhaustive view of treat versus poison from the Food and Drug Administration.

Treat or Toxic?

Know the best treats and common poisons now, learn and add to your refrigerator or office area so you constantly see the pictures of what is allowed and not allowed. Also be aware of the items outside. We have many palms and lizards as well as snakes that can make our pets very sick. They are animals and they do look at items that move. Your vet will also be able to assist you, but it is better to know which foods and items are to be avoided.

Dogs

(BAD) Toxic: Chocolate, avocado, macadamia nuts, onions, raisins, grapes, cherries, raw dough, apricots, caffeine, currants, garlic, mushrooms, star fruit, salt
(GOOD) Treats: Apples, cooked meat, peanut butter, applesauce, cheese, carrots, banana slices, watermelon, broccoli

Cats

Toxic: Salt, apricots, chocolate, star fruit, avocado, raw dough, caffeine, onions, peach pits, cherries, mushrooms, garlic
Treats: Catnip, green beans, berries, cooked carrots, cooked meat, tuna

Fatty holiday foods

When choosing treats for your pet, be aware of all ingredients of prepared foods. Thanksgiving turkey leftovers, for example, may seem like a good treat for cats and dogs, but the skin or gravy could have excessive amounts of salt, stuffing may have onions, garlic or other unhealthy ingredients that can be dangerous for your pets. Ham has the same issue with salt but can also have the sweet glaze which may lead to issues with digestion problems. When in doubt abstain from the human food for pets.

When In Doubt

If you want to offer your pet a new or unusual treat again, consult your veterinarian first. If your pet accidentally consumes an unknown or potentially toxic item, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible or take your pet to the vet’s emergency room if they show signs of distress. Some signs are lethargy, tired pets, not themselves. You know your pet and if they are not feeling well. Look for some training treats or things that you can give your pet during the holidays, so they have THEIR treat, so you feel good about them as well. Maybe they would love a holiday toy as well.