Vets warn festive food could be fatal for pets this Christmas

Sunday, 7 December 2025 19:45

By David Murphy

Animal charity urges caution as nearly half of UK pet owners plan gifts for their pets.

Pet owners are being warned to think twice before treating their pets to festive foods this Christmas, as national charity Blue Cross reports a worrying number of seasonal health emergencies linked to unsafe treats.

New research shows that 49% of people in the UK intend to buy a Christmas present for their pet, with more than a third (36%) admitting they give extra snacks over the holidays and 30% even preparing a pet-friendly Christmas dinner.

But Dr Paul Manktelow, Chief Vet at Blue Cross, is urging people to avoid sharing human festive favourites with their furry companions.

“Many Christmas classics can be harmful or even fatal to pets,” said Dr Manktelow. “Just a handful of raisins can cause kidney failure in some dogs, and rich foods like stuffing or gravy can lead to painful conditions such as pancreatitis.”

Among the most dangerous festive ingredients for pets are chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic and alcohol, all common in traditional seasonal dishes. Even leftovers can pose a risk, with hidden ingredients or mould leading to sudden illness.

Dr Manktelow also warned of hidden hazards beyond the dinner table. “Christmas trees, decorations and fairy lights can all tempt curious animals into trouble,” he said. “We’ve treated pets with tinsel in their stomachs and dogs with injuries from chewing electrical wires.”

The charity shared the story of Monty, a cat who needed urgent veterinary treatment after helping himself to half a boozy fruitcake from a Christmas hamper. “He had a reputation for stealing food, but this was serious,” said Dr Manktelow. “We had to flush toxins from his kidneys to save his life.”

To help owners keep their pets safe while still including them in the celebrations, Blue Cross advises sticking to safe, simple options. Dogs can enjoy small portions of plain cooked turkey (no skin or bones), vegetables like green beans or carrots, and a little mashed potato, but only in moderation.

“Sudden changes in diet and overfeeding are common causes of post-Christmas upset stomachs in pets,” Dr Manktelow added.