Healthy food for thought

A pet's idea of yummy food may not be the same as ours: plants, household products and even garbage can feel like a delicacy to them. It's up to you, loving owner, to do everything you can to prevent pet intoxications that can be anywhere from mild to lethal. 

Human vs pet foods 

Your vet and grocer sell pet food because... well... it's formulated especially for your cat or dog. Your pet's digestive system isn't the same as yours, and it differs between cats and dogs too, so their foods aren't interchangeable. Within the human range of foods, alcohol, onion, garlic, chocolate, fat trimmings, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts and walnuts are only a few of the items that are toxic for pets. They may love the taste, but their body isn't equipped to handle them. These foods are definitely not treats for our furry friends! 

Medicine 

The same goes for medicine. For instance, did you know that acetaminophen is highly toxic for cats, as they don't have the required enzymes to break down the drug? For this reason, if your pet needs medicine or treatment for fleas, parasites or any disease, always consult your vet and make sure to follow directions carefully. 

Household items 

Many household items are toxic for pets. Store away all cleaners and, whenever possible, go for natural, gentler products - they'll be better for your health as well! Also, car antifreeze, which is attractive to dogs because of its sweet taste, is highly toxic to them - often, one lick is all it takes to make them ill. Clean up all spills of antifreeze, cleaners, paint and such substances. Keep these products out of reach of your pets. 

Pest control 

You may not like insects or rodents around your home, and with good reason. But what is harmful to them may very well be harmful to your pets as well. For instance, rat poison is a bait, and while it's designed to attract mice and rats, it will attracts your pets as well. Also, if your pet ingests a poisoned rodent, it can be toxic to them too. Please consider the use of gentler products to control these pests. 

Plants 

While dogs and cats love to chew on grass, a great number of plants can prove toxic to them. Examples are hydrangea, dieffenbachia, lilies and mistletoe. For a more complete list of plants that are poisonous to your pets, visit www.animalhealthcare.ca and make a quick search with the word «plants». 

Garbage 

A garbage bag may smell wonderful to your cat or dog, but its content is likely to make them ill. Cover your bin tightly or keep it out of reach of your pets. Never underestimate your pet's creativity when it comes to getting their paws on what smells so good to them! 

In case of an emergency 

Keep your vet's phone number handy at all times. In case of an emergency, it's important to act quickly and you will be grateful not to have to fumble around to find it. If your vet doesn't have an after-hours service, write down the number of a clinic which does - just in case. If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, be ready to give your vet the type and amount of toxin that was ingested as well as your pet's symptoms. Don't induce vomiting before consulting with your vet. Depending on the product, this could increase damage. 

For more information about your pet's health, contact us at the SPCA LL at (819) 326-4059.