Most pets love human foods and table scraps, especially pups. As pet owners, we tend to give in occasionally and share a bite with our furry friends. However, in our efforts to pamper and indulge our pets, it is important to be aware that certain foods can pose significant health risks. What may seem like innocent treats to us can have serious consequences on our pets’ health.

In this blog post, we will delve into some common foods that can be harmful to pets and how to safeguard them from accidental ingestion. 

Chocolates

Chocolates are one of the most popular treats for humans, often providing comfort for us. But the same can’t be said for our furry friends. Both dogs and cats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of chocolates due to the presence of chemical substances called theobromine and caffeine. Unlike humans, dogs and cats lack the ability to metabolise these chemicals efficiently, resulting in a dangerous accumulation in their bloodstream. Theobromine and caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and cardiovascular system in pets, leading to various symptoms when ingested in large quantities. The symptoms of chocolate toxicity includes:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Increased heart rate and rapid breathing
• Tremors
• Seizures 

Theobromine content varies depending on the type of chocolate, with darker and more bitter varieties posing the greatest risk to pets. It is important for pet owners to prevent accidental ingestion by keeping chocolate products securely stored away from their furry companions. 

Grapes & Raisins

Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to both dogs and cats due to a substance called tartaric acid found in grapes. Even small amounts can cause severe kidney damage or failure in pets. The symptoms of grape or raisin toxicity may include the following: 

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration

Pet owners must be careful in keeping grapes and raisins away from their pets. Even foods containing small amounts of these fruits can pose significant risks, so it is best to refrain from giving them to your pets entirely. 

Onions & Garlic

Onions and garlic, along with other members of the Allium family such as shallots and chives, are all toxic to pets. These foods contain compounds called thiosulphate and disulfides, which can lead to gastroenteritis, anaemia and serious damage to the red blood cells. Even small amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, while larger quantities can be life-threatening. 

The symptoms of toxicity includes:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Pale gums
• Discoloured Urine
• Increased heart rate

Xylitol

Xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods and even some peanut butter brands, poses a threat to our pets. Ingestion can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), causing symptoms like vomiting, weakness, seizures and liver failures. While cats can also be affected, dogs are more susceptible. Though xylitol is less toxic to cats, large amounts can still cause harm. It is essential for pet owners to diligently check product labels for xylitol and to keep all xylitol-containing items securely stored to prevent accidental ingestion. 

Alcohol

Alcohol beverages and foods containing alcohol pose a significant danger to pets, with even small amounts having adverse effects. Due to their smaller size and different metabolic processes, pets are much more sensitive to alcohol’s effects, which can quickly lead to intoxication and potentially life-threatening alcohol poisoning. It is important for pet owners to diligently keep all alcohol products out of reach, especially during gatherings or parties where accidental ingestion may occur.

Cooked Bones

Last but not least, pet owners should avoid feeding their pets cooked bones. When bones are cooked, they become brittle and prone to splintering, which can lead to serious internal injuries when ingested by pets. Additionally, splintered bone fragments can become lodged in the throat or gastrointestinal tract, leading to choking or intestinal blockages. Instead of cooked bones, pet owners should opt for chew toys or treats specifically designed for safe chewing and digestion to ensure their pets’ safety and prevent potential health complications. 

Protecting our pets from these toxic foods requires awareness and diligence on our part. By familiarising ourselves with these common toxic foods and taking proactive measures to prevent accidental ingestion, we can keep our furry friends safe and healthy. If you do suspect that your pet has ingested any of the above, do not hesitate to seek professional help and consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.