As I was enjoying a quick lunchtime walk with the dogs recently, I received an urgent call from the clinic – a dog had just eaten a decent quantity of chocolate cake and the owner was rightly concerned about whether it might cause a problem. A medically-induced vomit later and the chocolate was out of its system before any harm was done. Now that Christmas is approaching, cases of ‘chocolate toxicity’ increase along with all those naughty Christmas treats.

Rich, fatty leftovers from Christmas dinner

Most people are aware that chocolate is bad for dogs – even a relatively small amount of rich dark chocolate can make a small dog very sick. But chocolate is not the only evil. Other foods that dogs don’t always tolerate include dried fruit such as grapes and raisins (so avoid the Christmas pudding and mince-pies) which for some dogs can cause quite serious kidney problems. Then there is all those rich, fatty leftovers from Christmas dinner, which are often tipped into the dog’s bowl, triggering stomach upsets or pancreatitis in susceptible dogs.

Some festive plants can also be quite toxic; poinsettias, holly and mistletoe are all potentially poisonous and even small amounts, if ingested, can cause gastrointestinal problems. Mistletoe berries are particularly lethal.

However, one of the nastiest toxins we see in winter is anti-freeze. It is supposedly quite sweet and cats are particularly prone to licking it up from driveways. It causes devastating kidney damage and is one of the saddest and most frustrating toxicities to treat. If you do spill any make sure you clean it up thoroughly.

A Christmas tree is like an indoor climbing frame to a kitten

If you have young cats this Christmas you can expect them to have great fun with your Christmas tree. A Christmas tree is like an indoor climbing frame to a kitten and they love playing with the decorations, but tinsel, string and ribbons are all too common causes of intestinal blockages, so be wary if they are playing with them.

The colder weather often exacerbates arthritis and hampers the mobility of older pets. Fortunately, there is plenty that can be done for a stiff old dog or cat, so if your pet is particularly affected this winter talk to your vet about treatment options.

Ultimately, Christmas should be a time of fun for you and your pets, but one final thought – will you be one of the supposed two in three pet owners who spend the same amount, or more, on presents for your pets as your partner?! I’m hoping my wife isn’t.