Holiday pet safety: Innovet Pet – the leading provider of innovative, natural well-being products for pets – conducted a study of 2,500 pet owners and it appears pets are on Santa Clause’s nice list this year because it was found that almost half of pet owners in Pennsylvania (46%) will be spending more on their pet than their partner this Christmas!
Also, 1 in 3 pet owners admit dressing their pets in Christmas themed clothing.
If you love your pet that much, then this time of year is one where it is important to pay attention to the human foods your pet might eat.
Here are some foods you should definitely avoid feeding your pet this holiday season:
Chocolate and nuts
This contains a chemical called theobromine which is seriously poisonous if ingested in large quantities by cats or dogs. You probably didn’t know that walnuts and macadamia nuts are actually toxic to pets and can harm their digestive, muscle and nervous systems.
Raisins, sultanas, currants and grapes
Even small quantities of these fruits can cause vomiting, diarrhea and in extreme cases, kidney failure. Beware of mince pies, Christmas pudding and fruit cake.
Fruits with stones
On top of being a choking hazard, the stones and pips of fruit like apples, cherries, peaches, plums and apricots contain cyanide, which is poisonous to pets.
On the flip side, below are some treats that are safe to share with your pet during the holidays:
Turkey
Your furry friend would love a couple pieces of plain, skinless turkey that’s free from any sauce, which can affect their stomach. Make sure there are no bones.
Winter vegetables
Some vegetables are really good for your pet’s health in small quantities as long as they are plain and contain no added oil or butter. Think things like green beans, carrots, brussels sprouts, broccoli, peas, spinach and parsnips.
Potatoes
Everyone’s favorite side dish is also delicious to your pet in small amounts, as long as you skip the butter and salt.
Once again, be careful of the quantities and types of foods you are feeding your pets as 6% of dog owners admit their pet gains weight over the festive period.
