As pet owners, we frequently give our pets our food without realising that some common components might be dangerous or even lethal. Some human-safe meals can seriously harm pets’ health, causing everything from minor digestive disorders to potentially fatal diseases. Although garlic and onions are well-known offenders, many other common items are also dangerous. By knowing what foods to avoid, you can save your pet from needless illness and urgent veterinary care. Pet health is our top priority at Avon Animal Hospital, and we want to assist you in making knowledgeable dietary decisions for your pet. Ten harmful ingredients to be aware of are listed here.
1. Garlic with Onions
Compounds found in onions, garlic, leeks, and chives cause anaemia in dogs and cats by destroying their red blood cells. Weakness, tiredness, vomiting, and breathing problems can result from even tiny doses. If your pet has consumed any, get medical treatment right away because symptoms can not show up for days.
2. Raisins and Grapes
Dogs and cats who consume grapes and raisins may get acute renal failure. Lethargy, diarrhoea, vomiting, and decreased urine might result from even a small dose. It is better to stay away from them completely because the harmful ingredient is still unknown. Ingestion must be treated by a veterinarian right away.
3. Coffee with Chocolate
Theobromine and caffeine, which are found in chocolate and caffeinated beverages, can cause tremors, seizures, a fast heartbeat, and even death in pets. Cocoa powder and dark chocolate are especially harmful. If your pet eats chocolate, call your veterinarian right away because symptoms may show up in a matter of hours.
4. Artificial Sweetener Xylitol
Gum, sweets, and some peanut butter brands contain xylitol, a sugar alternative that can trigger rapid insulin release and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Seizures, vomiting, liver failure, and even death may ensue from this. Always read ingredient labels before giving your pet any food.
5. Raw Dough and Alcohol
Pets that consume alcohol may have vomiting, diarrhoea, dyspnea, and even unconsciousness. Yeast-containing unbaked dough is also risky because it ferments in the stomach, releasing alcohol and expanding, which can lead to bloating and other uncomfortable symptoms. If consumed, prompt veterinarian care is required.
6. Nuts from Macadamias
Dogs that consume macadamia nuts suffer from severe toxicity, which can result in fever, tremors, vomiting, and weakness. Neurological problems and trouble walking can result from even tiny levels. Even if the precise poison is still unknown, it’s better to keep all nuts out of pets’ reach because many of them can be harmful.
7. Avocados
Persin, a toxin found in avocados, is toxic to birds, rabbits, and certain other animals. The pit can induce intestinal blockage and is a choking hazard, albeit it has less of an effect on dogs and cats. Avocado’s high fat content might also result in pancreatitis and upset stomach.
8. Dairy Goods
The majority of pets are unable to digest dairy because they are lactose intolerant. Bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach pain can result from eating milk, cheese, and ice cream. To make them extra riskier, certain dairy products also include xylitol or added sugar. If you would want to give a reward, stick to pet-friendly options.
9. Fat & Bone Trimmings
Cooked bones can splinter and result in obstructions, injury to the digestive tract, or choking. Raw or fried fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis, a debilitating and sometimes deadly illness. Always use raw bones made especially for safe chewing or treats that have been approved by your veterinarian.
10. Raw Meat & Eggs
Pets may contract food illness from dangerous bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli found in raw eggs and meat. Additionally, raw eggs contain avidin, which prevents the body from absorbing vitamin B and causes problems with the skin and coat. A safer substitute is cooked beef that hasn’t been seasoned.
Knowledge and awareness are the first steps in protecting your pet from harmful foods. Despite their apparent innocuousness, several human foods can seriously affect pets’ health, necessitating costly medical care and causing them emotional suffering. See a veterinarian right away if your pet inadvertently consumes a dangerous substance; don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Our goal at Avon Animal Hospital is to ensure the safety and well-being of your precious companions. You can visit our clinic on Fraser Hwy., Surrey, BC, or give us a call at (604) 532-7600 if you think you may have poisoning. Our first concern is the welfare of your pet!
