During these holidays that we are celebrating, many families share with their loved ones abundant meals and typical sweets such as nougat, marzipan or roscón. However, this gesture can become a serious health problem for our pets, since their organisms are not prepared to process many of the foods that humans consume at this time. In this context, veterinary experts warn of the risks and offer specific advice for each animal species.
Dogs and cats: be careful with fatty and sweet foods
Dogs and cats are especially sensitive to foods such as chocolate, sugar, raisins, alcohol and fats. The veterinary technical director of Kivet, Kiwoko’s network of veterinary clinics, Ana Ramírez, a specialist in animal nutrition, warns: “Consumption of these foods can cause everything from vomiting and diarrhea to pancreatitis, a serious illness that requires hospitalization. Chocolate, for example, contains theobromine, which is highly toxic to dogs and cats even in small quantities. “Grapes, for their part, have a high sugar content for the animal.”
Additionally, consuming cooked bones can cause intestinal obstructions or perforations, putting your life at risk, especially chicken bones. It is essential to keep these animals away from the table and opt for specific treats designed for them.
Small mammals: rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters
Although it may seem harmless, sharing sweets or fatty foods with small mammals can cause serious digestive problems. Their diet should consist of hay, appropriate vegetables and specific food. In these cases, Dr. Ramírez emphasizes: «a simple piece of marzipan can alter the delicate digestive balance of rabbits or guinea pigs, causing severe diarrhea or even serious metabolic problems. “In addition, nuts and seeds with high fat content are highly harmful to these animals.”
Canaries, parakeets and even large parrots
Birds have an extremely fast metabolism, which makes them particularly vulnerable to unsuitable foods. Sugar, fat and chocolate can be deadly. In the words of the veterinary expert: «excess salt or fat in birds can cause serious liver problems or kidney failure. On the other hand, sweets, such as nougat, are completely discouraged. “It is important to respect a specific diet based on seeds, fruits and vegetables appropriate for the species.”
Reptiles: be careful with foods outside their natural diet
Reptiles, such as turtles, iguanas… have very specific nutritional requirements. Foods such as marzipan or any sweet product are completely inappropriate.
According to the veterinarian consulted: «A reptile can suffer serious digestive disorders if it is offered human food. Even small amounts of fatty foods can be lethal. Make sure their diet stays strictly within expert-recommended guidelines, such as live insects, specific vegetables, or feed designed for their species.”
Fish
Although it may seem fun to “give some roscón crumbs” to the fish, doing so can have fatal consequences for the animal. The remains of human food in the water alter its chemistry, causing poisoning and seriously affecting your health.
In short, veterinarians insist that the best treats for pets, regardless of the species, are those designed specifically for them. «During the holidays, make sure they do not have access to human food and educate your guests to avoid accidents. Taking care of the health of animals not only avoids immediate problems, but also ensures a happy and lasting coexistence with the animals that are part of our family,” concludes veterinarian Ana Ramírez.
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