Christmas poisons
Abstract
Christmas is a high-risk time for poisoning in pets. It is busy and hectic with multiple distractions, and there is usually a mountain of food in the house. There is also a potentially increased risk of exposure to cleaning and disinfectant products as well as decorations as owners prepare for visitors and the party season. Nicola Bates looks at the biggest dangers to pets
Top of the list of Christmas hazards is chocolate and cases of poisoning are very common at this time of year. There can be several kilograms of it readily accessible around the Christmas tree and a layer of wrapping paper will not pose a barrier to an inquisitive dog who will easily eat all it can find. Although cases are common, deaths from ingestion of chocolate are rare.
Baked foods containing dried fruits (sultanas, raisins and currants) including Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, stollen and mince pies are also much in evidence. These fruits (and grapes) can cause renal failure in pets and prognosis is poor in animals that present in renal failure. On the upside, dried or fresh cranberries are not toxic to pets. Delayed presentation may be more of a risk over the Christmas and New Year season because of the prolonged holiday period, particularly where funds may be limited.
Nuts are more commonly found in home at this time of year. Macadamia nuts are the main concern as they cause weakness, ataxia, stiffness and joint pain in dogs. The cause is unknown but full recovery is expected. Other nuts such as pistachios, Brazil nuts, walnuts and sweet almonds can cause gastrointestinal signs and ingestion of a large quantity of nuts could result in gastrointestinal obstruction. Chocolate-covered macadamia nuts and raisins will be a double toxic hazard to pets.
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