- Holiday foods, while delicious for humans, can be toxic and dangerous to pets.
- Onion, chocolate and fish bones are just some of the ingredients that can seriously harm your pet.
- Find out how to keep your pet safe during the holidays and how to replace human food to make it happy!
Love is not the same as human food – Christmas flavors are not for animals
Red borscht with dumplings, carp, cabbage with mushrooms, poppy seed cake and gingerbread are dishes without which many people cannot imagine Christmas. Although they are a source of pleasure for humans and a symbol of tradition, they can pose a serious health threat to dogs and cats. Many holiday dishes contain ingredients that are toxic or difficult for animals to digest. Garlic, onion, grapes, raisins, chocolate, avocado, xylitol may lead to poisoning, and fish bones and bones may lead to injuries to the mouth, esophagus or digestive tract. Additionally, fatty, spiced foods can cause severe digestive problems.
The nutrition of dogs and cats should be based on a constant, complete and balanced diet, adapted to the needs of a given species, age and lifestyle, which helps maintain the health and well-being of the pet for many years. Food intended for humans, including holiday dishes, may pose a significant threat to animal health. Many ingredients commonly found in the human diet, such as chocolate, raisins and garlic, are toxic to dogs and cats even in small amounts. During the holiday season, there is an increased number of cases of poisoning and gastrointestinal disorders in animals, which is directly related to feeding them with food from the table.
– says Marzena Ignaczak, director of external relations at Mars Polska.
Routine and balance also during the holiday season
Although holidays have their own rules, the nutritional needs of animals remain unchanged. Dogs and cats feel best when their diet is consistent, complete and balanced, and meals are served at regular times. Sudden changes in the menu, irregular feeding or “holiday feeding” may lead to digestive system disorders, problems with the intestinal microbiome, and even affect the animal’s behavior and well-being.
A proper diet is one of the basic needs of animals. A constant composition of meals, appropriate proportions of nutrients and regularity of feeding are of great importance for the physical and mental health of dogs and cats – also during the holidays
– adds Marzena Ignaczak.
How to make your pet happy during the holidays
The holidays are a great opportunity to slow down and pay more attention to your pets. Playing together, taking a longer walk, petting someone or giving them treats designed especially for dogs and cats are a simple way to show care without changing their diet. Treats are also an excellent support in the dog’s learning process and in building and strengthening the bond with the owner. Such small rituals build closeness and make the holiday season pleasant for all household members.
Christmas is a time of joy, warmth and responsible choices. By taking care of the proper nutrition of our pets, we can be sure that the holidays will be peaceful, safe and full of good energy – both for people and our four-legged companions.
