We love to celebrate the holiday season with parties, friends, family and our favorite sweet treats. Several popular holiday treats are toxic to pets. Any candy containing the sweetener xylitol can be poisonous to dogs. Even a small amount of xylitol can be dangerous because it can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, which leads to depression lack of coordination, seizures and even liver failure.
Dark chocolate and baker's chocolate can also be potentially poisonous to dogs. Symptoms your dog might display if they've had a significant amount of chocolate are vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity and increased thirst and urination, as well as abnormal heart rate/rhythm and even seizures.
Cats love to play with candy wrappers, but ingesting aluminum foil or cellophane can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage.
If you have a real Christmas tree in your home, cover the Christmas tree water so that your pets can't drink it. Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers which, if swallowed, can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water can also act as a breeding ground for bacteria, and if swallowed, your pet could end up with abdominal discomfort, vomiting and diarrhea.
By taking just a few precautions, this holiday season can be a safe, joyous time for both you and your pet.
