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Friday, December 10, 2010

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS


Mistletoe and Holly
Toxic to Cats and Dogs
Clinical Signs:  Vomiting, diarrhea and depression.

Poinsettia Plant
Toxic to Cats and Dogs
Clinical Signs:  Irritating to the mouth and stomach, sometimes causing vomiting, but generally over-rated in toxicity.

Lilies
Highly toxic to Cats
Clinical Signs:  kidney failure.

Winter Hazards for Pets
Winter brings cooler temperatures, holidays and seasonal hazards. Listed below are a few examples of potentially hazardous items that pets might encounter during this time.

Low Toxicity: (may cause gastrointestinal upset, but unlikely to cause serious problems unless very large amounts are ingested)
•    Christmas tree preservatives (stale water in tree stands can harbor bacteria)
•    Poinsettias
•    Holly
•    Canned "snow"

Moderate toxicity: (may cause significant signs beyond mild gastrointestinal upset)
•    Mistletoe (species-dependent)
•    Ice melting products
•    Liquid potpourri
•    Batteries

High toxicity: (potential for very serious or life-threatening signs)
•    Antifreeze/coolants
•    Chocolate
•    Rising bread dough (yeast produce ethanol, rising dough can produce bloat and foreign body)
•    Sugar substitute xylitol used in homemade baking goods and holiday treats can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure
•    Human medications (cold and flu medications, decongestants)
•    Alcoholic beverages
•    Homemade "play-dough” (high sodium content)

Source:  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center