Springtime normally brings an increased number of cases to the vets. Bright sunny days mean that people and their pets are out and about enjoying the weather. We tend to see more road traffic accidents, cat fights, dog bites, allergic reactions and occasionally cases of heat stroke. However, the warmer weather also highlights problems that other hazards can cause!
1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine that’s poisonous to pets. The amount of theobromine differs depending on the type of chocolate, with dark chocolate and baking chocolate containing the most.
2. Raisins
Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas can cause kidney failure in pets.
Experts agree that there is no “safe” dose of grapes and raisins.
3.Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener, found in many products including some sugar-free sweets, diet foods & home baking. Pets are extremely sensitive to xylitol, even small amounts can cause toxicity. Early symptoms include lethargy, vomiting and loss of coordination. Seizures and even death may occur.
Can also be called BIRCH SUGAR.
4. Spring flowers
Daffodils are very toxic, particularly the bulbs. But the flower heads can also cause vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy. In severe cases this may result in dehydration, tremors and convulsions. These signs can be seen from 15 minutes to one day following ingestion. Other spring flowers, such as crocuses and tulips, are considered to be less toxic.
5. Ivy
Pets who eat ivy (hedera helix) commonly develop drooling, vomiting or diarrhoea. In the most severe cases you may also see blood in the vomit or faeces. Contact with ivy can cause skin reactions, conjunctivitis, itchiness, and skin rashes.
6. Bluebells
All parts of the bluebell are poisonous to pets. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort and there is also a risk of heartbeat irregularity (arrhythmia) if a significant quantity is ingested.
7. Adder bites
The European adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK. Adults are around
50-60cm long, characterised by having a black or brown zigzag pattern along their back
and a V-shaped marking on the back of their head. They are commonly found on dry,
sandy heaths, sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorland and woodland edges. Bites are most frequent in the spring when adders are still sluggish after coming out of hibernation.
Pets are very inquisitive. It is most common for them to be bitten on the paws or face.
Signs include swelling, bruising, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, restlessness, drowsiness and lethargy.
8. Slug and snail pellets
Poisoning caused by metaldehyde-based slug and snail pellets are fortunately less frequently seen than they used to be. Metaldehyde pellets are in the process of being banned. Slugs and snails are most active during warm humid spells which is when most slug pellet poisonings will occur. Ingestion can cause severe prolonged seizures and signs often occur within an hour.
If you suspect your pet has ingested any of the above, please do not wait, contact us immediately!
Ensure you bring all packaging with you when you are seen by the vet.
