During the New Year holidays, many pet owners like to treat their companions. A veterinary therapist from a well known clinic cautions that festive meals can upset a pet’s digestion and, in severe cases, threaten their life.
Winter favorites such as salads with mayonnaise and other rich sauces can bring a flood of fat into a pet’s system. That fat overload can trigger acute pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. If complications develop and tissue damage occurs, the outlook is often poor. In addition, high carbohydrate intake from these foods can lead to obesity, which stresses multiple bodily systems over time.
The holiday table often features baked meats, jellied dishes, and preserved fish like herring. The combination of spices, fats, and salt can inflame the entire gastrointestinal tract. Sudden vomiting or diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, a life-threatening situation. Pet guardians are advised not to ignore such symptoms or encourage them to occur.
The instinct to treat a pet during meal prep can backfire. Bones from jelly meat, fish products, or meat platters can cause irreparable harm. While traveling, splinters may trigger acute inflammation throughout the digestive tract. Without prompt veterinary care, an animal’s survival may be at stake. Additionally, large bones can get lodged in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines, since dogs and cats cannot digest them. This can lead to stomach or intestinal rupture and secondary peritoneal inflammation, often requiring urgent surgery.
Citrus fruits and grapes commonly appear on festive boards and pose risks as well. They can provoke allergies in both animals and humans, presenting as skin irritation and itching. Citrus can also alter stomach acidity, increasing the chance of gastritis and esophageal inflammation from reflux. Core symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite.
Grapes and raisins are particularly dangerous for pets due to a toxin with nephrotoxic effects. Even small amounts can be risky because the exact amount that causes kidney damage is not known. A cautious approach is essential, especially with small dogs and cats.
For guardians who really want to spoil a dog or cat, fresh vegetables are a safer option, such as a slice of cucumber or a leaf of lettuce. Small portions of boiled chicken, turkey, or lean beef can be offered, provided no salt, pepper, or bones are included. A thoughtful, humanely prepared snack can still be a treat without compromising a pet’s health. [citation: veterinary guidance]
Note: if any uncertainty arises during a festive meal, consulting a veterinarian promptly is the best course of action to protect a pet’s well-being. The goal is to enjoy the holidays together with furry friends, while keeping their health in clear focus. [citation: veterinary guidance]