Your guide to pet health
Pets are important not only as an integral part of the family unit, but as a source of company and comfort, providing therapeutic qualities when we need it most. They help us to enjoy the simple things in life; be it a morning walk or the joyful moment of returning home after a long day.
In short, pets help us to live our best lives, and there are different ways we can help them to live theirs.
Below is some useful guidance and information to help you when looking after your pet, so you can best protect them and keep them healthy and happy, while keeping yourself healthy and happy too.
Household dangers for your pet
Our pets remind us that home is where the heart is, but our homes often contain things that can be hazardous to pets and lead to a pet insurance claim.
Learning about the potential dangers, such as what foods are toxic for dogs or cats, is an important part of caring for your pets.
Explore the image and information below to learn more about the things that pose a risk to curious paws.*
Toxic food for dogs and cats
There are certain food types that can be toxic for dogs and cats and they can even be fatal. Below we have listed different types to be aware of to help you look after your pet:
Chocolate and sweet treats:
Human chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that can be fatal to pets. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk. Keep pets away from any foods containing chocolate, such as cakes, sweets, cookies and cocoa powder. Xylitol, which is found in sugar-free sweets, is also extremely harmful to dogs, so make sure any of these products are stored safely away too.
Cooked bones:
These can get stuck in your pet's stomach and cause blockages, or splinters of bone can cause internal damage. They can also cause fractures to your pet's teeth, stomach pain and constipation. Make sure you keep them out of reach or discard of them safely when you've finished with them.
Some vegetables, such as garlic and onions:
Some vegetables contain chemicals which can poison dogs and cats when eaten in large quantities, but exposure to concentrated forms such as garlic powder can also be toxic. Again, these should be kept safely out of reach.
Garden dangers for your pet
It is important to be aware that some plants and flowers are best kept well away from pets, as pets can be poisoned by eating or chewing the leaves, stems or flower heads, and even the pollen can be harmful. If in doubt, ask your local nursery or florist for advice before bringing a new plant into your home.
What are the signs of plant poisoning in pets?
If you see your pet eating a plant or flower, it is important to contact your vet as soon as possible to get their advice.
However it isn’t always easy to catch a pet eating a plant or flower, but there are signs you can look out for, including*:
- Low energy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Blood in the poo
- Drinking/peeing more
- Pale gums
- Twitching
- Tremors/seizures (fits)
- Struggling to breathe
- Collapse
- Drooling
- Eating less/not eating
You can learn more about poisonous plants for pets from PDSA.
*Information taken from https://www.pdsa.org.uk/
Tips on keeping your dog happy and healthy
Dogs wriggle their way into our hearts - and occasionally worm their way into trouble. But although we never know what life will bring, vet surgeon Martin Stevens has some simple steps you can take to keep your dog happy and healthy from nose to tail:
Common questions about pet health
If you'd like some advice before deciding whether to go to your vet, we've got you covered. Martin answers all the burning questions about your dog or cat's health - whether you're a seasoned dog owner or you've just brought home your first kitten.