Forbidden Foods for Dogs and Cats: What to Avoid?
Have you ever given your pet a piece of chocolate without realizing it could be harmful? Many pet owners make this mistake due to lack of information.
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Some common items in our diet are real poisons for animals.
According to veterinarians, more than 60% of poisoning cases occur due to ignorance. Pets' metabolisms are different from ours, and what is harmless to humans can be fatal to them.
Chocolate, onions, and grapes are among the main culprits. These items can cause everything from digestive problems to serious organ damage. Stay alert!
In this guide, you'll discover which foods should be kept away from your pet. Your health will thank you!
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Introduction: Caring for Your Pet's Food
Did you know that your pet's body processes nutrients differently than yours? According to veterinarian Dr. Renan Scarano, digestive system Pets have particularities that require extra attention.
While humans produce specific enzymes to digest different foods, dogs and cats have limitations.
A classic example is lactose: around 80% of adult dogs develop intolerance to this component.
Fatty foods deserve special care. They are frequently associated with pancreatitis in pets.
This condition can cause severe pain and requires immediate veterinary treatment.
Another common risk comes from eating bones. Although they may seem harmless, several cases of intestinal obstruction caused by sharp fragments have been reported. It's recommended to avoid them completely.
“In food emergencies, activated charcoal can be an important ally in reducing the absorption of toxins,” advises the Lavizoo team.
Keep the health of your pet starts with the conscious choice of what he eats. Small mistakes can lead to big ones problems, so prevention is always the best way.
Read also: How to Choose the Best Food for Your Cat
Why Are Some Foods Dangerous for Pets?
Did you know that certain substances present in human foods can be toxic to animals?
Pets' bodies react differently to ours, and what seems harmless can pose serious risks.
A classic example is chocolate. It contains theobromine, a toxin which can cause cardiac arrhythmias in dogs. Just 300mg per kilogram of body weight can pose a risk of death.
Another culprit is avocado. Persin, present in avocado, can lead to pulmonary edema. Xylitol, a common sweetener in gum and candy, causes blood sugar to drop in just 30 minutes.
Check the table below for the main dangers and their effects:
| Substance | Where to Find | Effects | Reaction Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theobromine | Chocolate | Cardiac arrhythmia | 6-12 hours |
| Persina | Avocado | Pulmonary edema | 24-48 hours |
| Xylitol | Sweeteners | Hypoglycemia | 30 minutes |
| Thiosulfate | Onion/garlic | Anemia | 2-4 days |
Plants like lilies are especially dangerous for cats. Ingestion can cause kidney failure within hours. In cases of raw salmon, the mortality rate reaches 90%.
Human medications also pose a risk. Approximately 501,000 cases of poisoning in dogs are linked to medications containing xylitol.
"Prevention is always the best medicine. Knowing the dangers helps avoid accidents," warns the team at Pet Care Veterinary Hospital.
Watch for signs. Vomiting, weakness, and behavioral changes may indicate poisoning. Acting quickly could save your pet's life.
Attention: How Do I Know if My Pet Is Overweight? Weight Management Tips
Foods Prohibited for Dogs and Cats
Many tutors are surprised to discover that some ingredients common can be fatal to your pets.
The difference in animals' metabolism requires extra care when choosing what to offer.
THE chocolate, especially bittersweet, contains theobromine in dangerous concentrations. Just 50g can cause tachycardia in medium-sized dogs.
The milk type, although less toxic, still poses a risk.
Check the difference in the table below:
| Type | Theobromine (mg/100g) | Dangerous Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Bitter | 450-1600 | 30g/kg |
| Milk | 150-220 | 100g/kg |
Onion and garlic are other silent villains. They damage red blood cells, which can lead to severe anemia.
The effect is cumulative, meaning that small, frequent amounts are also harmful.
Grapes and raisins deserve special attention. Even a few can cause acute kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, weakness, and reduced urine output.
"In cases of accidental ingestion, activated charcoal from the Lavizoo line can help reduce the absorption of toxins before reaching the veterinarian," recommends the team of experts.
Foods like macadamia nuts have neurotoxic effects. Just six nuts can cause tremors and temporary paralysis. Raw pasta is also dangerous due to stomach fermentation.
Excess salt is another little-known risk. It can lead to hypernatremia, a condition that causes seizures and even coma. Processed products often contain levels unsuitable for pets.
If your pet consumes any of these items, acting quickly is essential. Keep the number of your on-call veterinarian handy and have a first aid kit ready for emergencies.
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Dairy Products and Their Effects on Pets
Have you ever offered a little bit of milk to your pet and he got diarrhea? This is more common than you think. About 681% of dogs develop intolerance to lactose after weaning.
Cats and dogs process these products differently. While felines handle fat better, lactose is often a problem.
Cases of irritable bowel syndrome have been reported after consuming yogurt.
Aged cheeses may be a less risky option. They contain less lactose than fresh cheeses. Even so, the amount should be kept to a minimum to avoid discomfort.
| Product | Risk | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | High (diarrhea/vomiting) | Lactose-free milk |
| Plain yogurt | Average | Unsweetened Greek yogurt |
| Fresh cheese | High | Cured cheeses |
| Ice cream | Very high (xylitol) | Ice cream specifically for pets |
According to experts, probiotics developed for animals aid digestion. They balance intestinal flora without the risks of conventional dairy products.
"Commercial ice creams can contain xylitol, an extremely toxic substance. Choose versions specifically designed for pets," recommends the team at Pet Care Veterinary Hospital.
If you want to offer something fresh, safe alternatives exist on the market. The important thing is to always observe the reaction of your animal and consult your veterinarian.
Remember: even products considered safe should be given in moderation. Pets' digestive systems are sensitive and deserve special attention.
Bones and Meat: Not Always Safe
Giving your pet bones can be riskier than you think. Many pet owners believe it's a food natural, but experts warn of hidden dangers.
Cooked bones are the most dangerous. They fragment into sharp shards that can puncture internal organs. Veterinary data shows that 23% of emergency cases involve this. risk.
Check out the difference between types of bones:
| Type | Risks | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked | Intestinal perforations | Avoid completely |
| Raw | Less fragmentation | Mandatory supervision |
Raw meat also requires caution. Uncooked chicken can contain salmonella, a bacteria that causes intoxication serious. Contamination can even affect humans in close contact.
To prepare meats safely:
- Cook well above 75°C
- Avoid seasonings like garlic powder
- Remove excess fat
“Specific chew toys are safer alternatives to natural bones,” recommends the Lavizoo team.
Watch for signs like blood in the stool or persistent vomiting. These may indicate serious problems. When in doubt, always consult a veterinarian.
Remember: what seems like a treat can become a threat. Choose options designed specifically for pets.
Products with Xylitol and Other Sweeteners
Some sweets and toothpastes hide an invisible danger for your pet. xylitol, a common sweetener in sugar-free products, can cause serious reactions in animals.
Just 0.1g per kilo of weight already can take severe hypoglycemia. This substance stimulates the rapid release of insulin, causing a sudden drop in blood sugar.
Symptoms evolve rapidly:
- Lethargy in the early hours
- Disorientation and tremors
- Seizures in advanced stages
- Risk of coma after 12 hours
Check out where xylitol might be hiding:
| Product | Average Concentration | Risk for Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar-free gummies | 1g/unit | High |
| Toothpaste | 0.5g/serving | Average |
| Vitamin supplements | 0.3g/dose | Moderate |
| Diet candies | 0.8g/unit | Most High |
In cases In case of accidental ingestion, veterinary treatment should be sought immediately. Intravenous glucose injections help stabilize the animal.
“Lavizoo's Carvox Pet is effective in reducing the absorption of toxins in the first few hours after ingestion,” explains the veterinary emergency team.
Be wary of unusual products like toothpastes and chewable vitamins. Reading labels can save your pet's life.
Remember: keep these items out of reach. Prevention is always the best protection for your pet.
Plants and Other Non-Food Items
Your garden may hide unseen dangers for your pet. Many plants ornamentals contain toxins that cause serious reactions in pets.
Azaleas, for example, cause cardiac arrhythmias. Castor beans can lead to liver failure in just 48 hours. risks often go unnoticed by guardians.
Discover the 5 most dangerous plants for cats:
- Lily – acute renal failure
- No One Can With Me – intense oral irritation
- Snake-of-St. George – difficulty swallowing
- Oleander – heart problems
- Sago palm – liver failure
Symptoms of sago palm poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. In severe cases, the animal may go into a coma.
| Plant | Symptoms | Reaction Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lily | Renal failure | 6-12 hours |
| Oleander | Cardiac arrhythmia | 2-4 hours |
| With Me-Nobody-Can | Swelling in the mouth | 15-30 minutes |
A real-life case involved a cat that chewed oleander leaves in an apartment. The animal developed tachycardia and required intensive care.
“Hanging pots and physical barriers reduce accidents with toxic plants by 80%,” explains the Lavizoo team.
To create a safe environment, choose plants like mint and basil. They are harmless and can also please your pet. pet.
Remember: prevention is always better than cure. Knowing the dangers helps protect your loved ones.
What to do in case of accidental ingestion?
Did your pet eat something it shouldn't have? Act fast can make all the difference. The first hour is crucial to avoid serious complications.
Remove any residue from the animal's mouth with clean gauze. Do not use your fingers to avoid accidents. If there is vomit or excessive salivation, keep your head tilted downwards.
Never induce the vomit without professional guidance. Some substances can cause further damage if they return through the esophagus. A veterinarian should be consulted immediately.
Have an emergency kit with:
- Activated charcoal (effective in the first 2 hours)
- Needle-free syringe
- Disposable gloves
- List of 24-hour hospitals
In cases of intoxicationActivated charcoal helps reduce the absorption of toxins. The recommended dose is 1g per kilogram of body weight, mixed with water.
“Lavizoo has partnerships with clinics specializing in toxicology for immediate care,” informs the emergency team.
Watch for signs like diarrhea, tremors, or difficulty breathing. Write down the time of ingestion and the approximate amount consumed. This information will help with treatment.
Stay calm and transport the animal safely. Avoid sudden movements that could worsen its condition. Call veterinarian during the journey.
Remember: prevention is essential, but knowing how to act in emergency can save your companion's life.
Conclusion: Keep Your Pet Safe and Healthy
Take care of health of your pet starts with information. Knowing what to avoid reduces the risk of accidents by 40%, according to experts.
Fruits like seedless mango and watermelon are safe options. They offer nutrients without harming your health. pet. Lavizoo recommends 18 approved varieties.
Create a weekly checklist to ensure food safety. Include:
- Correct food storage
- Ingredient verification
- Supervision during meals
A supervised natural diet brings benefits. It improves the quality of life and prevents digestive problems.
With a little care, you can guarantee many years of joy for your petPrevention is always the best way!