Sled Dog hotel posted this in the dog forum. I copied and pasted here as I believe that a lot of it is relevant for cats too.


With Christmas now upon us thought now might be the time for a reminder of food and Goodies that will be around that is dangerous to dogs. Especially over the Holidays last thing anyone wants really is an Emergency Vet Visit if it can be avoided.

Chocolate Poisoning is one of the most common, Its also dangerous to cats,rodents and rabbits too. Its the Theobromine in the chocolate thats the danger. The Darker the chocolate the more theobromine and the more toxic.
Symptoms of chocolate poisoning are, vomiting, diarrhoea, de-hydration,hyperactivity and a rapid heart rate. In extreme cases seizures can occur and liver damage can develope. A lot depends on what sort of chocolate and how much the dog eats per Kg body weight, but if in doubt seek veterinary advice especially too if they are exhibiting any symptoms, do not delay in getting advice time can make a difference.

High levels of Caffine in coffee can also be toxic to dogs, so be careful with coffee grounds from coffee makers too. Symptoms for coffee/caffine ingestion are similar to Chocolate poisoning.

Grapes, Raisins, currants and sultanas can cause kidnney failure in dogs, this is an "odd" one as regards to toxicity, some dogs it has terrible effects on, others it doesnt seem to effect them. Some can eat large quanitites and for other dogs a couple of grapes or a few raisins gives symptoms. So be careful with christmas cake, christmas pudding and mince pies around your dog, just in case!!!

Other foods to watch that can cause problems include, Macadamia Nuts, and Onions, and mouldy foods (walnuts, bread and cheeses) Arfificial sweetners
especially Xylitol that is found in sugar free gum can cause problems with Insulin balance which in turn causes dangerous low blood sugar levels and liver failure in dogs.

Plants we tend to have around at christmas too, Mistletoe, Poinsettia, Holly and Ivy can also cause a badly upset Tum. Christmas decorations if eaten by an inquisitive pup even candles can cause an obstruction in the gut so be careful of those too.

Over indulgence in general in the form of too much turkey or a dog helping himself and eating too much "rich" food can result in a bad bout of diarrhoea and/or vommiting so watch where remains and food is left in reach.

If the worse should happen and you are concerned the dog has eaten something speak to the vet, if you can find out what he has eaten and the quantity and any packaging giving information that always helps.

To find out more about household poisons that may put your pet at risk
Willows Veterinary Centre & Referral Service: Poisons/Household Dangers.

Cant take full credit for this it was just an article I saw, but thought owing to the time of year might come is useful and might help avoid a potential accident waiting to happen.

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another one to add to it

chicken/turkey carcasses - even families that do not normally cook a full bird often do at Christmas and cooked bones are *very* dangerous as they splinter easily and can cause horrendous internal injuries, blockages and so on

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