As we are getting closer to Christmas, it is very important to remember that some of the goodies we will enjoy over the festive period are not safe for our pets....

🎄 CHOCOLATE - chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs and cats are sensitive to. Ingestion, especially of dark chocolate, can cause tummy upset, and cardiovascular and central nervous system stimulation

🤶 COOKED BONES - bones can splinter into sharp pieces that can cause choking and serious damage to your pet's mouth, throat and intestines

🎁 DRIED FRUIT - raisins, currants and sultanas are in Christmas cakes, mince pies etc. These can cause renal failure in pets

⛄ ONIONS - gravy and stuffing may contain onions, which can cause anaemia in dogs and cats. Symptoms include paleness, lethargy, weakness, stomach upset and haematuria

🎅 ALCOHOL - pets develop the same signs as people when they ingest alcohol, such as drowsiness and lack of coordination, and in severe cases there can be hypoglycaemia and metabolic acidosis

🎄 MOULDY LEFTOVERS - can cause tremors and seizures due to the presence of tremorgenic mycotoxins

Other things to watch out for are ingestion of Christmas decorations and ribbons etc (can cause blockages), certain plants (such as poinsettia, lilies, holly) as they can cause tummy upset.

Make sure everyone has a very merry, safe Christmas 🐾