As Halloween approaches, homes are filling up with seasonal goodies, but pet owners should be cautious about what treats their furry friends can access.
Pet insurance specialists at Tiger.co.uk are warning people to watch out for potentially toxic treats that are popular during the spooky season.
Chocolate, pumpkins, and apples, all staples of Halloween festivities, can pose a risk to pets, and those throwing parties or attending them should ensure alcoholic beverages are also kept away from animals, as they can lead to severe health complications if ingested.
Tiger.co.uk’s savings expert and managing director Ian Wilson commented: “For a lot of us, Halloween is a great opportunity for a get together and a chance to indulge in some festive treats.
“When hosting a busy party, it can be tricky to make sure pets are monitored and kept safely away from potential dangers – especially with noisy fireworks outside throughout Halloween, most people would likely opt to have their pets indoors to help ease any anxiety.
“That’s why we are urging pet owners to be extra vigilant this Halloween and think now about planning for their furry friends.
“Feeding pets human food can have serious health consequences, so it’s important to research before feeding dogs anything new and perhaps keep the pup somewhere separate from the party when the food is served, to help keep them safe and avoid other people unknowingly feeding the pup something dangerous.”
Top foods to protect your pet from this Halloween:
Pumpkin
Among the top foods to keep away from your pets this Halloween is pumpkin.
Pumpkin skin can pose a choking risk and potentially block your pet’s intestines. The stem and leaves of a pumpkin can also irritate their mouths and throats.
Alcohol
If you’re throwing a Halloween bash, ensure any alcohol is kept well out of reach of your pets. Alcohol can lead to vomiting, breathing difficulties, tremors, and decreased coordination, and can even be fatal for animals.
If you suspect your pet has ingested any alcohol, contact your vet immediately.
Salty crisps
Be cautious about leaving bowls of salty snacks like popcorn, crisps and pretzels around your home if there’s a chance that pets could get to them. High salt intake could result in sodium ion poisoning in pets, with symptoms such as vomiting, tremors and seizures.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a chemical known as theobromine, which is toxic to cats and dogs. The most common signs your pet has eaten chocolate include vomiting, diarrhoea, panting or restlessness.
Ensure all Halloween sweets are kept at a safe distance from your pets.
Apple cores
While apple skin isn’t harmful for pets, the cores and their seeds can pose a choking risk and may even upset their stomachs. If you’re bobbing for apples this Halloween, make sure to dispose of the apples properly afterwards.