Festive Food Advice for Pets

Author: Amy Holloway

In our previous articles, we’ve talked about foods that are poisonous and harmful to your pet. But what about foods that won’t kill them, but could make them severely uncomfortable and give them digestive problems?

Cats and dogs aren’t used to eating the types of foods that we eat and therefore should be avoided, or given in moderation. Read our advice on which food types to beware of this Christmas.

If your pet eats any of the foods below and suffers an acute health problem, it’s important to contact us immediately for advice or come directly to one of our practices.

Beware of bones

Bones are a common treat for dogs, but splinters can get lodged in their digestive tract and eating too many can cause severe constipation. We advise that you should avoid small bones, and definitely don’t give your pet uncooked turkey, chicken or pork bones. Bones that can splinter can cause intestinal ruptures and make your pet seriously ill, and bones that have had raw white meat on are dangerous due to the risk of salmonella. If you are unsure you should avoid, and always supervise your pet if you give them bones.

Avoid fatty, salty, spicy and sugary foods

Dogs and cats aren’t used to eating foods that are high in fat, salt, sugar and contain spices, these foods can severely damage their digestive systems and arteries. Pigs in blankets may seem like the perfect festive treat, however, they are far too salty and fatty for cats and dogs.

Say no to batter and dough

What happens to bread dough when it gets warm? It rises. If that happens in your cat or dog’s stomach there will be painful abdominal bloating and vomiting, so definitely avoid this. Plus, bread dough and cake batter also often contain raw eggs, which can carry salmonella.

Go steady on milk and dairy

Dogs have difficulty digesting lactose so take it easy if you’re giving your pet any milk or dairy products as they can lead to upset stomachs.

Ask us about harmful foods >

Check back tomorrow for our next instalment!

What to do in an emergency

If your pet has eaten any of these foods and is unwell, contact our Emergency Care Service immediately, on 01527 889810 even if it’s out of hours – we have emergency cover throughout the holidays. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear as early treatment is critical. Tell us how much of the item your pet has eaten and bring the packaging to our Bromsgrove surgery if you are advised that your pet needs to be seen by a Vet.

Other articles in this series:

FESTIVE PET TIPS – Keep your house tidy and your pet happy this Christmas

FESTIVE PET TIPS:  Don’t forget about your pet this Christmas

FESTIVE PET TIPS – 7 Christmas dinner foods that are harmful to your pet

FESTIVE PET TIPS – 9 Christmas treats that are harmful to your dog