Veterinarians warn of an increase in poisonings in dogs and cats from accidental consumption of candy, chocolate, and products containing sweeteners.
Veterinary clinics report a rise in pet poisoning cases during seasons like Halloween, Christmas, and Easter.
According to the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) in the United States, over 100 calls are logged daily for food-related pet poisonings, most involving chocolate, chewing gum, and products containing xylitol.
Experienced veterinarians state, “The compounds found in many sweets have a direct toxic effect on pets’ nervous, cardiovascular, and hepatic systems. Even small amounts can lead to severe clinical conditions.
During these times, it is crucial to reinforce prevention and educate pet owners, avoiding any type of human food and promoting safe feeding habits.”
Primary toxins in candy for pets
- Chocolate: contains theobromine and caffeine, substances that dogs and cats cannot metabolize effectively. Ingestion can cause vomiting, agitation, arrhythmias, seizures, and even death.
- Xylitol: found in gum, cookies, and “sugar-free” products. In dogs, it can cause severe hypoglycemia and liver damage. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, cases doubled between 2015 and 2020.
- Raisins and grapes: used in desserts, they can cause acute kidney failure.
- Sugar and food coloring: can lead to digestive issues, obesity, diabetes, and allergic reactions.
How to respond to potential poisonings
Symptoms may appear minutes or hours after consumption: vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, tremors, lack of coordination, lethargy, or tachycardia.
Veterinarians recommend not inducing vomiting without professional supervision and immediately visiting a clinic, bringing the packaging of the ingested product.
In some cases, activated charcoal may be administered to help absorb toxins, or supportive products like Enterex, under medical guidance.
Academic institutions such as Universidad de La Salle and Universidad Nacional de Colombia emphasize that education is key to preventing these incidents.
Some basic recommendations include:
- Keep candy, chocolate, and desserts out of pets’ reach.
- Teach children and visitors not to share human food with pets.
- Offer only snacks designed for their consumption.
If you have questions about your pets’ well-being, please email:
DrBorrego@petsvet.com
Dr. Enrique Borrego is the medical director of Animal General Hospital, located at 501 SW Port Saint Lucie Boulevard, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 • Phone 772-344-8835 • www.petsvet.com • Serving our Treasure Coast community since 1990
