Chocolate
Chocolate is a favourite among humans but it can be dangerous for pets, especially dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine which pets can’t break down as quickly as humans. Even a small amount can cause restlessness, a racing heart, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even seizures. Dark and baking chocolate are particularly hazardous, so it’s safest to keep all chocolate away from pets.
Foods with Xylitol
Xylitol, a common sugar substitute in sugar-free candies, gum and baked goods, is especially harmful to dogs. It can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Symptoms may include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Higher doses of xylitol can even cause irreversible liver damage, so it’s important to keep xylitol-sweetened treats well out of pet’s reach.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to pets, particularly dogs. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to sudden kidney failure with symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy and abdominal pain. Since it’s hard to know how much might be harmful to each pet, it’s safest to keep all foods with grapes or raisins out of reach.
Garlic and onions
Garlic and onions contain compounds that can harm pets, especially cats and dogs, by damaging their red blood cells. This can lead to anemia if consumed in large amounts or over time. Symptoms may include weakness, vomiting and pale gums. Since garlic and onions in any form – raw, cooked, or powdered – pose a risk, it’s best to avoid letting pets near any seasoned dishes.
Macadamia and other nuts
Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms like muscle tremors, weakness, vomiting and mild fevers. Other nuts, especially salted or flavoured ones, can upset pets’ stomachs and cause dehydration. Nuts also pose a choking hazard for smaller pets.
Raw dough
Uncooked yeast dough is dangerous if eaten by pets. It can continue to rise in their stomach causing gas and discomfort, while the fermentation process can create alcohol leading to alcohol poisoning. Signs of dough toxicity include vomiting, unsteadiness and bloating. Keeping raw dough covered and out of sight is the best way to avoid any risk.
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