Don't let hidden household dangers ruin your pets' Christmas

Turkey bones, tinsel and mistletoe could prove hazardous for dogs and cats MandS Pet Insurance policyholders have access to vet nurse specialists throughout Christmas

MandS Pet Insurance is warning pet owners to watch out for hidden household dangers that can cause illness to dogs and cats this Christmas.

Christmas is a time for festive fun for all the family and that includes the family pets.

However, the festive season poses a threat to the family's dogs and cats from seasonal dangers, including: Tasty off cuts of turkey and other poultry contain bones that can get stuck in the oesophagus and intestine of your pet.

Even small Christmas cracker toys need to be gathered up with care.

If you would keep it away from a toddler then keep it away from your pet! Early treatment can greatly improve the outcome for your pet.

Another Christmas danger is tinsel and ribbon from presents which can be swallowed and cause linear foreign bodies.

These can go undetected for weeks.

Siamese cats commonly display 'pica', which means a craving for abnormal objects and so these pets suffer these problems more than most.

Symptoms include vomiting, anorexia, depression and abdominal discomfort.

Poinsettia - the pot plant with the bright red top leaves common at Christmas - can also be a danger.

The sap from these plants is an irritant and eating a Poinsettia leaf may result in tummy upsets for your pets.

Mistletoe poisoning can occur if your pet eats a large amount of berries.

If you do use mistletoe, try and remove the berries.

Symptoms of mistletoe poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart and respiratory rate.

MandS Pet Insurance policyholders have access to a 24-hour advice line, 365 days a year.

VetfoneTM nurses provide concerned animal lovers with immediate advice on a pet's condition and can decide whether emergency medical treatment is required.

David Wells, MandS Head of Insurance, said: 'Christmas is a wonderful time of the year for all the family, but the festive period also brings hidden dangers for family pets.

It can be very upsetting when a family cat or dog suddenly becomes unwell and pet owners should remain vigilant.

'MandS Pet Insurance customers have access to a qualified veterinary expert around the clock, providing advice and answering questions should a pet become unwell.

For more information about MandS Pet Insurance or to apply, customers can visit www.marksandspencer.com/petinsurance or telephone 0800 731 4280.

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