Can Your Christmas Tree, Plants and Foods Harm Your Pets? Toxic Holiday Decorations
by Lorrie Davids(398)
It's Christmas time! The halls are decked and special treats are purchased or baked. Curious pets may try to nibble on the new decor and snacks, but, many of the things we may have in our homes this time of year could cause an allergic or poisonous reaction in our pets.
Poinsettias have long been thought to be poisonous to cats and dogs, but according to the ASPCA, that may be over-rated. The sap of the plant is an irritant, irritating the mouth and stomach, but may not be as toxic as once thought. While you pet may become nauseated, he most likely will be OK.
Mistletoe and holly are believed to be poisonous to cats and dogs. The degree of illness is related to the amount ingested.
Christmas trees can cause your pet to become ill. A live tree's water may be contaminated with fertilizers or pest sprays and the tree's needles can cause punctures or cuts to the digestive tract.
Watch your dog around tree ornaments. Some may smell tasty to your pet, but if a glass or odd shaped ornament is ingested, the result may be a trip to the emergency vet hospital.
Never allow your pet to consume alcoholic beverages and you know to be keep the chocolate out of your pet's way. As you are baking your special holiday breads, remember never to give your dog yeast dough.
With any toxin the amount your pet has been exposed to or ingested will determine if he gets sick.
Anytime you suspect your pet has ingested something you think could be toxic contact the ASPCA's animal poison control center at (888)426-4435 or the Kansas State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital at (785)532-5679. It is always a good idea to have your local emergency hospital's phone number with the rest of your emergency numbers.
Paying attention to your pet is all that is necessary to keep your pet safe and healthy this Christmas season. Merry Christmas!
Article submitted Thursday, December 17, 2009 & read 47 times.
Leave Your Comments:
» left by Marijo Phelps(30) (82 days 20 hours ago.)
Poinsettias are supposed to be lethal to cats too I have heard... good article with some "head's up" info that just might save a pet's life! MarijoRespond to this comment
» left by Lorrie Davids(398)
Thanks, Marijo, for reading and commenting! You are such an encourager! I thought the same thing; now they say maybe not lethal, but definitely causes irritation. We've not had poinsettias around at Christmas for years now. But, with our Husky, who will try to each anything, we don't want to risk it. Merry Christmas!
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