Toxic Foods for Dogs

 



Remember to always check ingredients even though a product is labeled natural, vegan, or no salt doesn't mean there are no toxic ingredients for your pet. Check the ingredient list 
what is an ingredient list ?  This list you can find on all products that are boxed and packaged or placed in containers. Both human and pet food or treats you can look at this list you see if it has what you need or what you want to avoid.  

The importance of accurate knowledge, if your knowledge is based on a trends, false claims, or a neighbors chances are no matter how many ingredient lists you read you may end up choosing something unhealthy or dangerous for your pet. That being said it is the up to the most importance that your knowledge is accurate and based on reliable information. 

Onion, Garlic, Chive, and Leek Toxicity in Dogs

What a tantalizing aroma…onions, garlic, chives, and leeks sizzling in a pan. This combination of kitchen herbs is the basis of many culinary masterpieces. While these traditional seasonings delight our taste buds, they can make our pets very sick. Here is what dog owners and amateur chefs should know about this fearsome foursome.

What are these species of herbs?

All four species of herbs belong to the Allium family and have been kitchen staples for ages. This is quite a large family of plants with approximately 95 species of cultivated or native leeks, chives, garlic, onions, shallots, and scallions in North America, not counting ornamental varieties. These plants form bulbs that nestle underground and are very aromatic. Green above-ground shoots are edible as well but emit a less intense odor.

The domesticated species commonly implicated in canine toxicity are Allium cepa (onion), Allium porrum (leek), Allium sativum (garlic), and Allium schoenoprasum (chive), with garlic being the most toxic.

Any form of these vegetables and herbs can cause poisoning. Dried, powdered, liquid, cooked or raw herbs are all poisonous to your dog. Dried and powdered ingredients, including dried minced onions and garlic powder, contain a higher concentration of substance on a per weight basis due to the water content being removed. For example, one teaspoon of garlic powder is equivalent to eight cloves of fresh garlic. Thus, this type of exposure can result in a higher risk of poisoning. Human nutritional supplements may also be a source of these toxic plants.

What do they do?

Besides making your dinner taste great, onions, garlic, leeks and chives can cause serious medical problems for your dog. Although clinical signs of illness, such as vomiting, can occur soon after your dog eats any of these, the full onset of signs may take several days to appear.

 In most cases, consumption causes gastroenteritis or inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Irritation of the mouth, drooling, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea may occur.

The potentially deadly part of Allium spp. damages red blood cell membranes. This makes the red blood cell fragile and causes them to burst. Red blood cells are needed to carry oxygen throughout the body. When these cells are destroyed, important organs do not get enough oxygen. A low red blood cell count (anemia) results in increased heart rate, elevated respiratory rate and effort, weakness, discolored urine, kidney damage, collapse and even death. Certain breeds, especially dogs of Japanese descent (Akita, Shiba Inu), may have a higher risk for toxicity.

How do they do it?

These simple plants have a complicated mechanism of action. These plants contain oxidizing agents that cause oxidative hemolysis of the red blood cells. As the concentration of oxidants in the red blood cells exceeds the ability of antioxidant metabolic pathways to “de-toxify” the cell, poisoning occurs. The red blood cell membranes become fragile due to direct oxidative damage and burst.

What are the signs of illness?

Signs of poisoning vary depending upon the amount eaten. Gastrointestinal upset commonly occurs, including signs of decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, abdominal pain, and drooling. Eating larger amounts may cause red blood cell damage resulting in weakness, elevated heart rate, increased respiratory rate and effort, panting, pale gums, or red-colored urine. Kidney damage can occur in dogs that have red blood cell destruction. Increased drinking, increased or decreased urination, vomiting and decreased appetite are common signs of kidney damage.

How is poisoning diagnosed?

Most cases are diagnosed in pets that have the expected signs along with changes in the red blood cells and a known or suspected ingestion. Bloodwork to evaluate red blood cell counts are performed to support the diagnosis. Bloodwork to assess kidney function and a urinalysis may also be recommended.

How is poisoning treated?

Early decontamination and treatment decrease the risk for serious effects. If ingestion occurred within a few hours of treatment, the veterinarian may induce vomiting. Once vomiting is controlled, activated charcoal may be administered. This can decrease absorption of the toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. Activated charcoal should only be administered by a veterinarian. Otherwise, aspiration into the lungs and life-threatening changes in sodium levels may occur. Blood work to look at the red blood cells will also be performed. Since destruction of the cells may not show up for several days, repeated blood work is typically recommended for up to a week. If you believe your pet ingested ibuprofen, it is important to call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, at 1-800-213-6680 right away to have the risk of poisoning assessed.

If red blood cell destruction occurs, hospitalized care may be recommended. Fluids are often administered intravenously. Pets that develop a low red blood cell count (anemia) may require oxygen supplementation or a blood transfusion. Repeat bloodwork to monitor the red blood cell count and kidney values is often needed for days to weeks in these pets.

How can poisoning be prevented?

Preventing access to plants, herbs, seasonings and supplements is key to avoid poisoning. Never give food seasoned with onions or garlic to your dog. Fence off gardens and plant beds containing onions, garlic, chives, or leeks. Dispose of leftovers containing these ingredients in an area where pets do not have access. Remember, some pets will even open lower cabinets or get into open drawers. Keep in mind that pets can get on counters or knock items off counters and tables.

Never give medications or supplements to a pet without first consulting a veterinarian. Do not leave any vitamins and supplements where unattended pets may reach them. It is not uncommon for pets to chew through closed bottles. Curious pets may want to check out purses, back packs, lunch boxes or suitcases. These items should not be left in areas where pets can get into them. Do not assume a pet will avoid eating something just because it has a bad taste. If medications/plants/seasonings are dropped, confine all pets in another area of the home until all the material can be picked up.

Whenever a toxic exposure is suspected, immediate action is recommended. Early consultation and treatment are often less expensive and can help prevent serious health effects.

Mushroom Toxicity

Dogs and cats are curious creatures. When outside, they wander around with their noses to the ground... sniffing a lot of things, licking several things, and eating a few things. Unfortunately, their curiosity sometimes gets them into trouble, especially if they decide to nibble on mushrooms. 

Dogs and cats are natural scavengers, but many mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious or even life threatening illness. Here are a few things you need to know about mushroom toxicity.

 

Where do toxic mushrooms grow?

Mushrooms grow best in warm, wet weather and flourish in many places in Canada and the United States. They grow in wooded areas, rocky terrains, grassy parks, and even in your own back yard. In warmer climates, they may grow year round, but in most areas, spring and early fall are the prime growing seasons.

 

What do toxic mushrooms look like?

Some mushrooms look like the umbrella kind with woodland creatures hiding under them depicted in children’s books. Others look entirely different. There are many different species of mushrooms with a variety of characteristics making identification of individual types quite complicated. If you aren’t a “mushroom expert”, it’s best to assume that any mushroom you find could be a poisonous one. It’s not necessary to know the name of every single mushroom species if you avoid them all.

 

How serious is mushroom poisoning?

The severity of mushroom induced illness depends on the type and number of mushrooms ingested. Sometimes a pet may have mild gastrointestinal (GI) upset that resolves at home. Other times, pets become extremely sick and require hospitalization. Unfortunately, some pets die despite therapy.

 

What does mushroom toxicity look like?

Just as there are many types of mushrooms, there are many types of toxic reactions to mushrooms. Signs vary with the mushroom species and amount of mushroom ingested by the pet. To simplify the complexity of mushroom poisoning, the toxins can be broken down into four categories.

  1. Gastrointestinal toxins. There are many mushroom varieties that cause upset stomach. Pets may become ill within 15 minutes of nibbling on these mushrooms or symptoms may be delayed for up to 6 hours. The muscarinic mushroom is a noted variety that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Pets may become weak and dehydrated. Out-patient treatment may suffice, but hospitalization is often required to stop vomiting and diarrhea and restore fluid balance. These mushrooms can also cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia) and respiratory problems.
  2. Hepatotoxic. These mushrooms affect the liver. With names like death cap or death angel, Amanita mushrooms sound really ominous and they are! Amanita mushrooms cause liver failure that can be deadly. Owners may see their dog or cat nibble this type of mushroom, but do not become concerned because their pet looks fine immediately afterwards. Then 6-24 hours later, GI symptoms start to occur. Some pets appear to get better for a while giving owners a false sense of security; however, the underlying liver failure continues to progress. The pet becomes jaundiced, weak, lethargic, and sometimes comatose. What starts as mild GI upset quickly progresses to full blown liver failure that can result in death in a matter of days. If not treated quickly and aggressively, the liver failure is irreversible.
  3. Nephrotoxic. Mushrooms in this category affect the kidneys. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Fortunately, these mushrooms are not as plentiful in North America so cases of toxicity in pets are rare. When illness does occur, signs can be delayed for 12 hours up to a week or longer so by the time treatment is sought, the damage is done.
  4. Neurotoxic. There are three main groups of mushrooms that cause neurological signs including hydrazines, isoxazole, and psilocybin (hallucinogenic or “magic”) mushrooms. The onset of illness is fast with signs occurring in 30 minutes up to 6 hours. Signs include weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, vocalizations, disorientation, agitation, and seizures. These toxins can also affect the kidneys and liver causing a myriad of problems. Unlike other cases of mushroom toxicity in pets, the source is often inside rather than outdoors. Pets are curious with mushrooms in your home, and may find their owner’s private stash of hallucinogenic mushrooms.   

 

How is mushroom poisoning diagnosed?

Evidence of exposure to mushrooms is the first factor in an accurate diagnosis. Tell your veterinarian if you even suspect that your pet ate mushrooms and when it may have occurred. Be specific when describing symptoms and their time of onset. This information is vital for accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.

"To help with identification, bring a mushroom specimen with you to the emergency hospital."

After taking a thorough history, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam. Next, blood and urine samples will be taken to determine organ function. A sample of stomach contents may also be retrieved to help identify the mushroom ingested. Since some mushroom toxins have a delayed effect on organs, liver and kidney function tests may be repeated every 24-48 hours to monitor function.

To help with identification, bring a mushroom specimen with you to the emergency hospital. Wrap the mushroom in a damp paper towel rather than a plastic bag. This will preserve the integrity of the specimen and make identification easier. You can also take a picture of the mushroom, but make sure to capture all aspects including the gills, cap, and stem.

 

What is the treatment for mushroom poisoning?

As with most cases of poisoning, prompt treatment is critical to a successful outcome. Minimizing absorption of the toxin is critical so identifying the mushroom in question may take a back seat for a while. Once your pet is stable, mushrooms can be identified by a mycologist at a local college or by visiting the North American Mycological Association website.

"As with most cases of poisoning, prompt treatment is critical to a successful outcome."

Decreasing the amount of toxin that enters the bloodstream may be accomplished in several methods. If your pet sees your veterinarian soon after ingestion, your pet’s veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove mushrooms from the stomach. A GI medication such as activated charcoal that will bind with the toxin and prevent its absorption. Sometimes, the doctor may perform a gastric lavage to eliminate any remaining mushrooms from the stomach.

Your pet will also be given intravenous (IV) fluids to combat dehydration and flush toxins from the body. Fluids also support kidney and liver function while toxins that have already been absorbed are processed.

 

How I can prevent mushroom poisoning?

First, assume that all mushrooms growing in the wild are harmful until proven otherwise. If your pet wanders outside unsupervised, remove all mushrooms in your yard. Patrol the yard regularly - mushrooms spring up quickly! If you have trouble eliminating all the mushrooms from your yard, consult an expert.

Curiosity is a good personality trait to have in a pet. Inquisitive cats and dogs are usually bright and entertaining. But to keep your curious pet safe, avoid mushroom poisoning by avoiding mushrooms!

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Caffeine Toxicity in Pets

We may start the morning with a jolt of caffeine, but our pets do not need a cup of coffee to get their day going. In fact, they usually wake up tail wagging, ready to go. And if they need a rest later on, they do not feel the least bit guilty about settling down for a little nap on the couch instead of an afternoon cup of joe. Why should not they enjoy an afternoon siesta? They do not have to study for a test, cook dinner, or finish a business report on schedule.

It’s good that dogs and cats do not depend on caffeine to get through the day. This particular chemical boost can be toxic for them.

What are some common (and not-so-common) sources of caffeine?

Pet owners may not realize that caffeine can be harmful to their pets. They also may not know that many foods and drinks in their cupboards contain caffeine. Most people name coffee as the number one source of caffeine and they are right. Most households have coffee in the pantry, but many teas and sodas contain caffeine too. And do not forget about those energy or sports drinks in the fridge. Other common sources of caffeine are diet pills, over the counter pain medication combinations, over the counter energy boosting products, and coffee grounds.

"Pet owners may not realize that caffeine can be harmful to their pets."

While these are commonly recognized stimulants, did you know that your favorite candy bar may also contains caffeine? Chocolate contains caffeine along with theobromine, a close chemical relative of caffeine. Coffee flavored ice creams and liqueurs are other tasty sources of caffeine. Chocolate covered coffee beans pack a double threat!

What are the symptoms of caffeine toxicity?

Caffeine is a stimulant, which is why it helps us stay awake. Most of the signs of toxicity are a result of the stimulant effects of caffeine. Think about how you feel after 3 cups of coffee and you will get a good idea of what your dog or cat is experiencing after lapping up a spilled energy drink.

"Pets that consume caffeine may have an increased heart rate and become hyperactive."

Pets that consume caffeine may have an increased heart rate and become hyperactive. They get jittery and restless and do not want to lie still. They may also pace or vocalize excessively.

"Caffeine also raises blood pressure and causes cardiac arrhythmias, which can be dangerous."

Caffeine raises blood pressure and causes cardiac arrhythmias, which can be dangerous. Pets may also lose muscle control and have tremors or seizures. Caffeine affects the gastrointestinal tract and can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Vomiting may actually be a helpful side effect, since it can remove some of the toxin from the body. Pets may also need to urinate more just like people do after drinking a couple of sodas. Large ingestions of caffeine can be fatal to dogs and cats, especially if no treatment is given. 

Numbers Matter

Dogs and cats are more sensitive to caffeine than humans are. While taking a sip of hot coffee or iced tea probably will not adversely affect most pets, ingestion of one or two caffeine pills can be fatal for small dogs and cats. Symptoms can start as soon as 30 minutes after ingestion and last for 12 or more hours. Many caffeine containing products also include additional ingredients, like sugars or other stimulants.

The degree of toxicity is determined by the amount of caffeine ingested as well as the size and health status of the pet. A large, young, healthy dog will likely have a better outcome than a small, old dog with kidney problems. But, regardless of age or size, caffeine can damage major organs like the liver, heart, kidneys, lungs, and central nervous system.

"Caffeine can damage major organs like the liver, heart, kidneys, lungs, and central nervous system."

How much caffeine is too much?

Due to differing amounts of caffeine, the amount of a product that is needed to be ingested before toxicity is expected varies. For example, a 15 pound Sheltie would need to ingest approximately three teaspoons of instant coffee grounds for mild signs to develop and 10 teaspoons for the potential of severe signs. A cup of espresso has a higher caffeine content than regular coffee, so a smaller amount of espresso would need to be ingested for symptoms to develop.

How is caffeine toxicity treated?

As with all poisoning cases, early intervention is key to successful treatment. Call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control center, at 1-800-213-6680 as soon as you realize your pet has consumed caffeine. Your pet’s veterenarian may induce vomiting to help remove the toxin from the system before it is absorbed and may also give activated charcoal to minimize absorption of any remaining toxin from the gastrointestinal tract.

"As with all poisoning cases, early intervention is key to successful treatment."

Supportive therapy with intravenous fluids will prevent dehydration which may concurrently occur secondary to vomiting, diarrhea, and the diuretic effects of caffeine. Intravenous fluids can also help the body to excrete caffeine as well as support kidney function.

Medications may be needed to treat muscle tremors and seizures, lower blood pressure, and to stabilize an irregular heartbeat. For adequate treatment and observation, be prepared to have your pet stay in the hospital through the day with mild cases and possibly for a few days in severe cases.


Edible Dangers

Some food and drink items that you consider tasty treats may be dangerous for your pet. As tempting as it might be to share your food or drink with your four-legged friend, please resist! Some of the more hazardous edible items include:

While not necessarily toxic, some food items can cause a gastrointestinal obstruction (a blockage in the digestive tract) if your pet swallows them. For example, avocado pits, corn cobs, and bones can get stuck in your pet’s esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Fruit pits in the Prunus genus of trees and shrubs, which includes cherries, nectarines, peaches, and plums, contain cyanide, but cyanide poisoning is rare unless your pet eats a lot of pits and chews them up. The pits must be crushed or ground up to release the cyanide. A gastrointestinal obstruction is the bigger risk for dogs and cats that eat these fruit pits.

While not edible themselves, food bags, especially the mylar-type potato chip bags, cereal bags, and snack bags, can be a danger for pets. Dogs are typically more likely than cats to sniff out food bags. These bags are thin enough that if your dog puts his head far enough into one and breathes in, the bag can wrap around his nose and mouth, suffocating him. The more your dog breathes in, the tighter the bag gets around his face. He can’t easily pull the bag off with his paws because it’s tightly stuck to his face, like shrink wrap.

Non-Edible Dangers

Pets, especially dogs, will often eat non-edible items. Some non-edible items in your house or yard that may be dangerous for your pet include:

  • Antifreeze
  • Cocoa mulch
  • Fabric softener sheets
  • Ice melting products
  • Insecticides and pesticides (even flea and tick products for dogs can be dangerous, or possibly life-threatening, if used on cats or other animals)
  • Lawn fertilizers and weed killers
  • Liquid potpourri
  • Mothballs
  • Paints and solvents
  • Rat and mouse bait
  • Various household cleaners (including bleach and toilet bowl cleaners)
  • Swimming pool chemicals
  • Salt dough Christmas tree ornaments and play dough

Plants and Flowers

Threats to your pet’s health can also come from outside the home. Some plants and flowers can be harmful if your pet eats them. Below is a list of the more common plants and flowers that may be dangerous for your pet:

  • Almond, apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach, and plum trees and shrubs
  • Aloe Vera
  • Amaryllis
  • Caster Bean
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Cyclamen
  • Corn Plant
  • Daphne
  • Dogbane
  • English Ivy
  • Foxglove
  • Golden Pothos
  • Hibiscus
  • Hyacinth and Tulip (especially the bulbs)
  • Hydrangea
  • Kalanchoe
  • Lilies: Daylily, Gloriosa Lily, Lily-of-the-Valley, Peace Lily, True Lily
  • Mother-in-Law Tongue
  • Mountain Laurel
  • Narcissus, Daffodil, Paperwhite, and Jonquil
  • Oleander
  • Philodendron
  • Poinsettia
  • Rhododendron and Azalea
  • Rosary Pea
  • Sago Palm
  • Schefflera
  • Stinging Nettle
  • Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Plant
  • Yew Bush

Toxicity Can Vary

The potentially dangerous items listed above can vary in how toxic they are to pets. Some may be only mildly toxic while others may cause severe illness or even death. Also, the degree of toxicity often depends on several factors, such as:

  • The type of animal (cat, dog, or other species) that ate the item;
  • How much the animal ate; and,
  • For plants, which part was eaten (if it was the bulb, leaf, or flower).

You can find complete toxicity information for the above items and other dangers for pets on the website of a pet poison control center (see contact information below). 

Act Quickly

If you think your pet has eaten something potentially dangerous, call your veterinarian or a pet poison control center right away.




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