Throughout the year, there are plenty of events to put in your calendar – most of which come with an abundance of food and drink!
But, do you know which of the most popular foods are actually bad for your pet’s health and could even prove fatal?
Here Are The Foods That You Should Avoid Feeding Your Pets At All Costs…
Small Pets
We know small animals are less likely to jump up at the leftovers on the table or in the kitchen, but it’s still important to know what they can and can’t have from your feast…
Chard
- Can cause bloating and digestive problems
Fruit
- Not good for rabbits or guinea pigs
- Avocados are dangerous
- Fatty fruits can be deadly to small pets
Iceberg Lettuce
- Contains a chemical called lactucarium
- It is mainly water so provides no nutrients or fibre
- Can cause diarrhoea
Tomato Leaves
- Leaves and stems should never be fed to hamsters, gerbils, rabbits and guinea pigs
Potatoes
- Very starchy – can’t be digested by rabbits
- Toxic to gerbils and hamsters
Rhubarb
- Poisonous if eaten raw
- Not recommended to be grown in the garden if your rabbits or guinea pigs forage
Roasted Peanuts
- No roasted or salted peanuts for your hamster and gerbil
- Raw nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pumpkin and sunflower seeds can be eaten as an occasional treat
Pre-Packed Salad
Dogs & Cats
Dairy Products
- Hard for both to digest milk and cheese due to the lactose
Symptoms: Skin allergies, Diarrhoea, Vomiting
Onions, Garlic & Chives
- All part of the Allium family
- Raw, dehydrated or cooked can cause stomach upsets
- Can affect the red blood cells and could prove fatal
Symptoms: Lethargy, Sleepiness
Chocolate
- In chocolate there is a stimulant called Theobromine, this is poisonous to cats and dogs and can kill them
- It can affect a pets heart, nervous system and digestive system
Symptoms: Seizures, Hyperactivity, Vomiting, Diarrhoea, Restlessness
Macadamia Nuts
- Most nuts should be avoided by dogs but macadamia are the most toxic
- The effects of eating these can be fatal
Symptoms: Depression, Tremors, Vomiting, Weakness, Increased body temperature
Caffeine
- Keep coffee beans, fizzy drinks and tea bags out of reach – they could be fatal
- Although, a quick sip of tea or coffee is unlikely to do any serious harm
Symptoms: Rapid breathing, Heart palpitations, Restlessness
Raw Ingredients
- Like with humans, uncooked fat trimmings, raw fish, eggs, and meat can all cause salmonella or upset stomachs
- It’s said that excessive amounts of fats can add to the risk of pancreatitis in cats
Symptoms: Loss of appetite, Vomiting, Diarrhoea
Xylitol
- This is an artificial sweetener found in cakes, chewing gum etc.
- It can trigger a quick release of insulin in dogs and cats which can cause seizures and affect the liver and even have fatal reactions
Symptoms: Lack of coordination, Weakness, Vomiting
Grapes, Sultanas & Raisins
- Can cause kidney failure due to how toxic they are for cats and dogs
- Possibly fatal for dogs and cats with underlying health issues
Symptoms: Dehydration, Lethargy, Diarrhoea, Vomiting
Corn On The Cob
- The cob is hard to digest and can block your dog’s intestines
- This can require emergency surgery
Symptoms: Stomach pain, Constipation or Diarrhoea, Loss of appetite, Vomiting
If you become aware that your pet has eaten any of these things, we recommend seeking veterinary attention immediately!
As the kids head back to school and the summer comes to an end, Tailster has all of your pet care needs sorted! Whether you’re looking for regular, daily walks or someone to pop in occasionally to check on your pets, we’ve got you covered. Click here for more information on Tailster’s pet walking and sitting services.