It’s no time for festive treats

CHRISTMAS treats do pampered pets more harm than good, according to a leading veterinarian.
Australia Veterinary Association president Mark Lawrie said vets often spent the post-Christmas period caring for pets with gastro problems.
“There are some foods which we indulge in over the Christmas period that are just not good for our cats and dogs,” he said.
“We think we are giving them a Christmas treat, but really what we are doing is setting them up for some ‘treat-ment’ with their vet.”
Dr Lawrie said grapes and sultanas were among foods to avoid.
“So that means no fruit mince pies or fruit cake,” he said.
Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting and depression and avocado can cause breathing difficulties.
“Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, can cause an increase in thirst and urination followed by increased heart beat, tremors and seizures and, in extreme cases, even cause death,” Dr Lawrie said.