What pets can and cannot eat
Wiesbaden. During Advent and Christmas, people enjoy many of the delicacies that are traditionally on the festive table. Whether sweet or savory, chocolate cookies or roast goose: what is a culinary highlight for us can be dangerous for dogs and cats. “Some ingredients from holiday cuisine are unsuitable or even poisonous for pets,” says Norbert Holthenrich, President of ZZF – Central Association of the Pet Industry. “Animal lovers can make their pets happy with animal-friendly snacks.”
Dogs are not allowed to eat chocolate
The most popular of all sweets poses a great danger for dogs: “Cases of chocolate poisoning are increasing, especially around the holidays,” reports PD Dr. med. vet. René Dörfelt (Dipl. ECVAA, Dipl. ECVECC, European Specialist in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care), Head of intensive care and emergency medicine at the small animal clinic at the LMU Munich. Chocolate contains the substance theobromine, which is broken down much more slowly by animals than by humans. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat or seizures in dogs and, in the worst case, can be life-threatening. “Dark chocolate contains more theobromine than whole milk or white chocolate,” explains Dörfelt. “That means the darker the chocolate, the more severe symptoms or smaller amounts for the same symptoms.”
Raisins and cinnamon are poisonous to four-legged friends
Grapes and raisins, which are processed into stollen, for example, are also taboo for the animals. Even small amounts can damage your kidneys or even cause acute kidney failure. “If you notice that your dog has eaten raisins, you should go to the vet immediately and have your kidney values monitored,” recommends Dörfelt. Poisoning by raisins can include vomiting and neurological symptoms such as problems walking (ataxia) indicate.
There are further risks lurking in the ingredients of cookies and gingerbread: bitter almonds, macadamia nuts or spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon can cause health problems in pets. Particular caution is also required with xylitol: the sugar substitute can trigger a life-threatening drop in blood sugar levels in dogs.
Animal-friendly treats instead of goose legs
Give the begging furry friend a bite of the feast here and there? Rather not! It is better for pet owners to remain steadfast, as the fatty, spicy foods can quickly upset the stomachs of pets. Christmas goose remains have no place in the food bowl: the cooked bones of poultry splinter quickly and can lead to internal injuries.
If you want to pamper your pet during the holidays, you should use animal-friendly treats. Pet stores offer a large selection of suitable snacks for dogs and cats, such as chewing bones, food balls, cookies, vitamin pastes or chewing strips, which often also offer additional benefits. “For example, they support dental care, reduce bad breath or are a healthy nutritional supplement,” says ZZF President Holthenrich. “It is important that the small extras are also counted towards the calculated daily ration. Because snacks and chewable items often contain more energy than expected and therefore often already make up a significant proportion of the daily requirement.”
If poisoning is suspected, go to the vet
To ensure that the “most wonderful time of the year” remains relaxed for pets, the ZZF advises paying special attention in the household: do not leave cookies, sweets or leftover food unattended – and also ask guests not to give well-intentioned treats.
Anyone who notices possible symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, apathy, tremors or breathing problems should contact the veterinary practice or emergency veterinary service. The poison emergency centers can also provide advice if the animal is suspected of being poisoned.
Central Association of Zoological Specialist Companies (ZZF)