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Holiday Toxicosis

POINSETTIA

NOT A REAL PROBLEM!! Ingesting large amounts could cause vomiting and diarrhea.

MISTLETOE

mederately toxic, causes GI upset, cardiovascular collapse (slow heart rate, low blood pressure), erratic behavior (causes hallucinations in people).

HOLLY

Low Toxicity, vomiting, diarrhea, CNS depression

CHRISTMAS TREES

needles are mildly toxic, oils are local irritants to mucous membranes. Needles can cause punctures in mouth and intestinal tract.

CHOCOLATE

milk chocolate

SIMMERMING POT POURRI

Pets may lick the container or spill the pot pourri. It can be a skin and mucous membrane irritant or cause corneal ulcerations, vomiting, diarrhea, or CNS depression.

XYLITOL

Artificial sweetner used in baking, sugar free chewing gum, candles, mints, flavored multi-vitamins, and desserts. Ingestion of small amounts can cause low blood sugar and higher doses can cause liver failure.

IBUPROFEN

(aka. Advil) Narrow margin of safety for dogs, cats, ferrets and is the most common OTC drug toxicosis issue seen in veterinary practices. Decreases stomach mucous resulting in irritation and ulcers. Can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, dark and tarry stools, or blood loss anemia.

ACETAMINOPHEN

(aka. Tylenol) Can cause liver failure and blood disorders

RIBBON/TINSEL

Cats tend to eat this, causes linear foreign body that may require surgical treatment. Do not pull from mouth or anus!

RICH HOLIDAY FOODS

Fatty foods can cause gastrointestinal irritation or pancreatitis. It is the most common reason for vomiting and/or diarrhea. Pancreatitis can be life threatening.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Ingestion of small amounts will cause CNS depression, coma and the possibility death.

RAISINS/GRAPES

Can cause liver failure

TREATMENT FOR TOXICOSIS

Depends on the cause. Veterinarians may recommend the owner induce vomiting at home to evacuate the stomach if ingestion occurred within an hour or less of when ingestion was realized. Do not induce vomiting if toxin is corrosive (i.e. bleach, anti-lime agents, acids, drain cleaners, etc.) or if a substance is a petroleum distillate (danger of asperation pneumonia). Use of hydrogen peroxide (esophageal and stomach irritant) may be recommended by the veterinarian. Do not use Syrup of Epicac which can be cardiotoxic and prolong lethargy. Do not use salts, soaps, or mustard powder.