Food poisoning in dogs and cats: what to do?

Our pets can, like humans, suffer from

.

In cats and dogs alike, this is a serious illness that you must know how to detect as soon as possible to ensure a good recovery for your companion.

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What are the causes of food poisoning?

Food poisoning, also called

, is an infection that affects your pet's digestive system.

It results from the ingestion of a food or a substance that has been contaminated by a bacterium, a virus or even a parasite.

You have to be especially vigilant when taking your dog out, as some animals tend to eat anything they find.

Even if they are more careful, cats can also be tempted to ingest food toxic to them during an outing in the garden.

In general, avoid as much as possible leaving dangerous products such as household products, drugs and alcohol within reach of your pet.

Also watch out for the toxicity of certain plants:

• Geranium

• Lily of the valley

• Wisteria

• Amaryllis

• Hyacinth

• Lilac

• Rhododendron

• Cyclamen…

This list is not exhaustive.

Many plants can be poisonous.

It is better to check, before buying a plant, if it is accessible to your animal, that it will not put him at risk.

Food poisoning: beware of toxic foods

While it may be tempting to offer certain unusual foods to your cat or dog, it is best to avoid some that are particularly harmful:

• tea

• coffee

• chocolate

• the grape

• Milk

• Potato

• the leek

• onion

• garlic ...

Read alsoCat food: toxic foods to avoid

What are the symptoms of food poisoning?

Symptoms of food poisoning in animals are similar to those of gastroenteritis and can result in:

• tremors

• vomiting

• diarrhea

• hypersalivation

• tremors

• fever

• paralysis

It is very important to act quickly, because in the most severe cases, the animal can fall into a

and without prompt treatment by a veterinarian, food poisoning can cause the

of your cat or your dog.

Read alsoDog: 5 symptoms to take seriously

What to do in case of food poisoning?

If you think your pet may have ingested a

or is exhibiting any symptom that could suggest food poisoning, contact your veterinarian.

Try to find the cause of this poisoning: what did your pet eat?

When was the last time it came out?

Your veterinarian can adapt the treatment depending on the toxic food ingested.

If this is not possible, he will carry out analyzes to determine the cause of this intoxication.

These analyzes can take time, it is crucial to act quickly in case of doubt about a possible poisoning.