Holiday Hazards

november.2006.....NAVC clinician's brief

Veterinary clients need to be reminded that holiday foods and other items may present serious health risks to cats and dogs. Liver failure, cardiac arrhythmias, and seizures can occur from ingestim foods containing grapes or raisins, macadamia nuts, chocolate, and cocoa beans as well as from tea and cola. Garlic, onions, and foods containing xylitol (a calorie-free sweetener) or propylene glycol should also be avoided. Other potentially dangerous ingredients include caffeine, salt, and uncooked yeast dough.
Nonfood items such as candy wrappers, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, tinsel, or ribbons also present a hazard; they can become lodged in the mouth or intestinal tract. Mistletoe and holly are also toxic. For additional information, contact the ASPCA/Animal Poison Control Center at 1 -888-426-4435 or visit www.apcc.aspca.org.—UC Davis Veterinary Medicine News 70/23/06