Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine. The sweeter chocolates such as milk chocolate have lower concentrations of theobromine per ounce than darker chocolates such as baker’s chocolate or cocoa. In fact, white chocolate has only one tenth the amount of theobromine found in darker, unsweetened chocolate. Clinical signs that your pet may exhibit range from mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting, to seizures. If you suspect that your pet has ingested chocolate, call us immediately so that we can determine if the amount ingested will cause a problem.
Mistletoe (Phoradendron spp): The entire plant is poisonous, especially the berries. You may not see any signs for several hours after ingestion. The symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Contact us immediately if you suspect that your pet has ingested any mistletoe.
Tinsel: This can be a particular problem for cat owners. Many times it isn’t even known that the cat has ingested tinsel. Sometimes you may see a piece of tinsel underneath your cat’s tongue. Never pull the tinsel from under the tongue! Call us immediately. Tinsel acts as a linear foreign object and can cause a blockage within the gastrointestinal tract. The most common signs that owners will see are vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhea.
Table Scraps: With the festive season comes high-calorie and fatty meals. Many owners or friends who are visiting want to spread the holiday cheer by sharing their meal (turkey, gravy, ham, etc.) with the family dog. Unfortunately, this can cause a potentially life-threatening disorder called pancreatitis. Symptoms may include vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Share hugs and kisses instead of food!
