Intoxication in dogs at Christmas: dangerous foods and how to act | Vet in Barcelona
During the Christmas holidays, sharing special moments with our dogs and cats is a pleasure… but it also involves certain risks. Many foods and objects typical of this season can be highly toxic for pets. At Animal Salut, your vet at home in Barcelona, we explain what your dog or cat should not eat at Christmas, how to identify intoxication and what to do if it happens.
Dangerous Christmas foods for dogs and cats
Many veterinary emergencies at Christmas are related to accidental ingestion of human foods. These are the most common and dangerous:
Most toxic foods
- Chocolate: contains theobromine, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and even death.
- Grapes and raisins: can cause acute kidney failure even in small amounts.
- Christmas sweets and nougat: contain sugar, chocolate or xylitol (highly toxic).
- Onion, garlic and leek: damage red blood cells and can cause hemolytic anemia.Alcoholic beverages and coffee: affect the nervous and digestive systems.
- Cooked bones: splinter and can perforate the digestive tract.
Advice: avoid leaving food within your pet’s reach or unsupervised.
Toxic Christmas plants: more common than you think
In addition to food, some decorative plants can intoxicate your pet:
- Poinsettia: causes gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting and drooling.
- Holly: its berries are toxic causing vomiting or lethargy.
- Mistletoe: can cause serious cardiac and neurological problems.
Christmas decorations and gifts dangerous for dogs and cats
Objects that attract your pet’s attention can be dangerous:
- Christmas lights: risk of electrocution or burns if chewed.
- Ribbons, gift wrap and bows: can cause intestinal obstruction if swallowed.
- Tree baubles: can break, causing cuts or choking.
What to do if your dog or cat has eaten something dangerous
Acting quickly makes a difference. Here are the key steps:
Recommended steps in case of intoxication
Do not induce vomiting without consulting a veterinarian.
Write down what was ingested and how much (if possible).
Call your trusted veterinarian immediately.
At Animal Salut, your vet in Barcelona, we can help you:
- At our veterinary clinic in Barcelona
- With our home veterinary service
- Or through an online consultation (ideal if you cannot travel)
Common symptoms of intoxication in dogs and cats
Pay attention to these warning signs:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Tremors or lack of coordination
- Dilated pupils, excessive panting
- Seizures, weakness or lethargy
- Pale gums
- Sudden loss of appetite
At Animal Salut we perform immediate tests at home or in the clinic to detect problems before symptoms worsen.
How to prevent Christmas intoxications at home
- Avoid scares by following these good practices:
- Do not leave food within your pet’s reach.
- Inform family members and guests: they should not give leftovers.
- Use artificial or pet-safe decorative plants.
- Check the Christmas tree and decorations before leaving your pet alone.
- Keep your emergency vet’s phone number in Barcelona close at hand.
Extra tip: At Animal Salut you can book an online veterinary consultation without leaving home.
Protect your pet this Christmas
Christmas can be magical or risky if precautions are not taken. Remember: chocolate, grapes, alcohol and poinsettia can intoxicate your pet.
At Animal Salut we are here to help, whether at your home in Barcelona or at our clinic. Contact us with any doubt or suspected intoxication.