For most people, Christmas parties represent one of the favorite times of the year, full of feeling and excitement among family and friends. However, they can also mean high levels of stress and excesses, especially when it comes to food.
Copious dinners can cause digestive problems, not only for humans but also for domestic animals. In fact, subjecting our pet to the same diet that we consume during the holidays may be more of a risk than a prize.
Fats, sweets, spicy food and party drinks are not part of the pets’ usual diet and sudden change can trigger intestinal tract irritations, allergies or infections, among other ailments.
Therefore, in this article we are going to talk about what your pet cannot eat at Christmas.
¿What happens if you give Christmas food to your pet?
The abrupt change in the animal’s diet, including a considerable increase in protein, carbohydrates, sugars and condiments, can affect the mucous membranes that line the gastrointestinal tract, which results in vomiting and diarrhea.
Also, we face the possibility that the animal’s weight gets out of control. In some species of dogs and cats, the balance in weight is essential so that the animal can stay healthy, so 2kg or 3kg more are serious.
However, if it is the case that, by mistake, the animal consumes alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer or champagne, the best thing you can do is take it urgently to the veterinarian. Alcohol in animals generates loss of motor skills, heart conditions and severe respiratory problems.
Food not allowed for pets
Although certain foods may be traditional at Christmas parties, they should not be shared with pets in the house.
Let’s see some:
If there is a food that is classic at Christmas it is chocolate. However, this product is totally toxic to dogs and cats. Not only is it harmful because of the sugar content, but it also contains theobromine, which can even be lethal to canines.
All ice creams contain cream, a dairy derivative that gives ice cream consistency. This product can be harmful to your pet’s gastric mucosa.
Nuts, almonds or seeds
Nuts have high phosphorus content, which can be deadly as it unbalances the chemistry of the animal’s body. In addition, nuts are toxic to dogs.
Allowing your pet to eat grapes is a very bad idea since it can affect your intestinal flora and generate vomiting and diarrhea. Moreover, the seeds of the grapes can be poisonous and, in some cases, interfere with the proper functioning of the renal system.
Onion and Garlic
Nothing more toxic to an animal than onion. Do not let him eat onion or anything that was seasoned with garlic.
It is usually common among families to deliver Christmas dinner leftovers to our pets; however, it is necessary to take into account that domestic animals have certain nutritional needs.
If you have any questions about what foods your pet can eat at Christmas, let us know and we will help you make the best decision.