Dog owners have been warned over a series of common Christmas foods which are toxic to their pets.
The festive season is undoubtedly a time for indulgence, with an array of savoury and sweet treats becoming the norm.
Cheese boards become essential, alcohol intake often increases, and chocolate practically becomes a daily staple. It’s the one time of the year when dietary rules are fully relaxed.
However, while we may wish to take advantage of this relaxed attitude, it’s crucial to remember that not all our favourite foods are safe for our pets. Dogs can be particularly sensitive to certain foods, many of which can be seriously harmful.
In an effort to raise awareness, homelessness community aid group Poverty Watch UK posted an image on Facebook detailing several foods and ingredients that are toxic to dogs. The list included stuffing, mince pies, alcohol, macadamia nuts, chestnuts, Christmas cake, xylitol (a sweetener found in many products like sugar-free gums, sugar-free jams, mints, and sweets), blue cheeses (due to the mould), cooked bones, raisins/currants, chocolate, and onions.
The post sparked a flurry of comments, with one person joking: “Good job I eat all that, the dog eats dog food.”
Another added: “Missed out: garlic, leeks, chives, raisins, sultanas, currants, grapes, apple cores.” A third helpfully noted: “Xylitol also known as birch sugar.”
Xylitol, also known as birch sugar, wood sugar and birch bark extract, is highly toxic to dogs. Even small quantities can be lethal, so it’s crucial to contact a vet immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol.
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs include decreased activity, weakness, instability, collapse, and seizures.
Of festive foods safe for pets to enjoy, the RSPCA advises: “Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it’s not covered in fat, salt or gravy. Your pets should stick to their normal food.”
It recommends moderation if you do wish to give your pet a festive treat: “If you want to treat your pet to festive bites, try our easy-to-make cat and dog treats below. Be sure to feed treats in moderation, as extra weight isn’t good for their health.”
It also advises against giving chocolate, onion gravy, alcohol, mince pies, Christmas pudding and meat on the bone to cats and small furry pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, as well as dogs.
Despite the common depiction of dogs enjoying bones, they can pose a choking hazard and risk of internal blockages and intestinal perforations. The RSPCA also notes that while rabbits and guinea pigs can eat grapes – but only in small amounts due to their high sugar content – they’re poisonous to cats and dogs.
