Dog

On the 7th day of Christmas, my owner accidentally gave to me … 

Artificial sweeteners

A sugar-free sweetener called xylitol is often found in the sweets we consume over Christmas, as well as chewing gums, mouthwashes, toothpastes and supplements. It is poisonous to dogs and, although the amounts in different products vary, event one to two pieces of chewing gum can cause toxic effects in a small dog. It can induce the release of insulin in the body, resulting in low blood sugar and sometimes liver damage. Signs of poisoning can be rapid or delayed, and include vomiting, lethargy, convulsions and comas. The prognosis is good if the low blood sugar is treated quickly.

Remember, giving your dog lots of new food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea!

Cat

On the 7th day of Christmas, my owner accidentally gave to me… 

Poinsettia

Once believed to be deadly for cats, it’s now known that the poinsettia is mildly toxic. Ingestion can cause irritation to the mouth, oesophagus and stomach. Spray the plant with a bitter anti-chew spray if your cat shows an interest in your holiday poinsettia plants. If the plant has been treated with pesticides then the toxicity level increases.

Rabbit

On the 7th day of Christmas, my owner accidentally gave to me… 

Christmas plants

Be aware of the seasonal plants that you’re bringing into your home – for example, poinsettia plants. Poinsettias aren’t poisonous but this doesn’t mean to say that they are okay for your rabbits to nibble on as they could potentially cause some mild intestinal discomfort.