Poisoning dangers for pets during autumn and winter

During autumn and winter, pets may be at a higher risk of coming into contact with these potentially poisonous items: antifreeze; conkers; plants and flowers; mouldy foods; xylitol; chocolate; human medication; wild mushrooms.

The team at NVS created an infographic which contains to following information on the risks posed to pets by these items:

Antifreeze, which contains the substance Ethylene glycol, is poisonous to pets, as little as 1 teaspoon could be fatal to a cat. Symptoms include: drooling, vomiting, panting, sedation, lethargy and seizures.

Conkers are poisonous to dogs and can also cause an intestinal blockage if ingested. Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, abdominal pain, reduced appetite and muscle tremors.

Many plants and flowers can be poisonous to pets, look out for Holly, Ivy, Mistletoe, Poinsettia, Pine Cones and Pine Needles. Symptoms include: drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Mould-contaminated food may contain harmful mycotoxins. Symptoms include: seizures, panting, vomiting, weakness, dehydration, muscle tremors and lack of appetite.

Xylitol, also known as ‘E-Number E967’ can be found in many sugar free foods If ingested it could cause a sudden drop in blood sugar. Symptoms include: collapsing, lethargy, weakness, vomiting, jaundice and coma.

Chocolate is toxic to both cats and dogs and the higher the cocoa content, the more toxic it can be. Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, heart palpitations,dizziness and in some cases seizures.

Pets should never be given human medication unless under the direction of a vet. Pets are much smaller than humans, making them more susceptible to overdose when they consume even a small quantity.

Like humans, pets need to be careful when around wild mushrooms as some can be fatal if ingested. Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness and jaundice.

If you are worried your pet may have come into contact with any of these, please contact the practice as soon as possible.