Bonn. The cold season and the Christmas holidays pose particular dangers for dogs and cats. These mainly include poisoning. The causes are diverse. Ethylene glycol, which is often contained in antifreeze, is deadly even in small quantities and requires specific treatment. Foods like chocolate, grapes/raisins, and onions are toxic to both dogs and cats. Symptoms vary depending on the substance ingested and range from gastrointestinal complaints to neurological symptoms. Dark chocolate in particular can quickly become fatal, especially for small dogs, due to its higher theobromine content.
Be careful with sweeteners
Caution is also advised with sugar substitutes. In dogs, for example, poisoning with xylitol also occurs. They are particularly sensitive to sweeteners, which can lead to increased insulin secretion, a drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
Other potential dangers in the home environment include poisonous garden and house plants. The popular poinsettia is one of them. Decorative arrangements or bouquets of flowers can also contain plants that are poisonous to animals. Household products such as cleaning products are also a common source of danger and should always be kept locked up. Cats in particular are at risk because they ingest more substances through their cleaning behavior after contact.
Store medications safely
Finally, poisoning caused by accidental ingestion of medication is also one of the most common cases of poisoning in pets and should be avoided by storing it safely and inaccessibly. Animal owners should also refrain from attempting medication.
Poisoning can have serious consequences for the animal, and in the worst case it can be fatal. In the event of suspicion, quick action is required. The faster and more targeted treatment is, the better the chances of recovery. Any information about the type and amount of toxic substance ingested as well as the time of ingestion are helpful for veterinary examination and therapy.