General
Chocolate isn’t the only dangerous food. Learn which everyday foods can be toxic to dogs and cats and when to seek help.
Can human food be dangerous for pets?
Many of the foods we enjoy every day can be harmful, and sometimes even life-threatening, to our pets.
While dogs and cats often beg for treats from the dinner table, their bodies process certain foods very differently from ours. Some foods may cause mild digestive upset, while others can affect the nervous system, heart, liver or kidneys.
Knowing which foods are dangerous can help prevent a veterinary emergency.
Why is chocolate toxic to dogs?
Chocolate is one of the most common causes of food-related poisoning in dogs.
It contains compounds called methylxanthines, particularly theobromine and caffeine, which dogs cannot metabolise efficiently. As a result, these substances build up in the body and can reach toxic levels.
The darker and more concentrated the chocolate, the greater the risk.
Generally, toxicity increases in the following order:
- White chocolate
- Milk chocolate
- Dark chocolate
- Baking chocolate
- Cocoa powder
- Cocoa beans
Small dogs are especially vulnerable because even modest amounts can result in significant toxicity.
What are the signs of chocolate poisoning?
Symptoms typically develop within six to twelve hours after ingestion and may include:
- Restlessness
- Hyperactivity
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Increased thirst
- Excessive urination
- Rapid breathing
- Elevated heart rate
- Muscle tremors
- Seizures in severe cases
Without treatment, severe chocolate toxicity can be fatal.
What should I do if my dog eats chocolate?
Do not wait for symptoms to develop.
Contact your veterinarian immediately, even if your dog appears normal. Early treatment is often highly effective and can prevent serious complications.
If possible, be ready to provide:
- Your pet’s weight
- The type of chocolate consumed
- The estimated amount eaten
- When the incident occurred
Prompt veterinary attention can make a significant difference to the outcome.
What other foods are toxic to dogs and cats?
Chocolate is not the only concern. Several common household foods can be dangerous to pets.
Grapes and raisins
Even small amounts can cause sudden kidney failure in some dogs. The exact toxic mechanism remains unclear, making any exposure a concern.
Onions, garlic and chives
These foods can damage red blood cells and lead to anaemia in both dogs and cats.
Xylitol
This artificial sweetener is found in some chewing gums, sweets, peanut butters and baked products.
In dogs, xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and may lead to liver failure.
Alcohol
Even small quantities can affect a pet’s nervous system and cause serious illness.
Macadamia nuts
These nuts can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting and difficulty walking in dogs.
Caffeine
Coffee, energy drinks, tea and caffeine tablets can have effects similar to chocolate toxicity.
Raw bread dough
Yeast dough can expand in the stomach and may also produce alcohol as it ferments.
Avocados
While not usually highly toxic to dogs, avocados can cause digestive upset and may pose risks to some other animal species.
Are some pets more at risk than others?
Yes.
Dogs are generally at greater risk because they are more likely to consume large amounts of food if given the opportunity. Curious puppies are particularly vulnerable.
Cats tend to be more selective eaters but can still be affected by certain toxic foods and household substances.
How can poisoning be prevented?
Prevention is always better than treatment.
Simple precautions include:
- Keeping chocolate and sweets out of reach
- Storing food securely
- Educating children about unsafe foods
- Checking ingredients for xylitol
- Keeping rubbish bins inaccessible
- Avoiding feeding table scraps
When in doubt, assume a food may be unsafe until you have confirmed otherwise.
How can we help?
Poisoning emergencies require prompt action and professional veterinary care.
At Ceres Veterinary Hospital, we provide emergency treatment for suspected poisonings, including chocolate toxicity and exposure to other harmful foods. Our team can assess your pet, initiate appropriate treatment and provide ongoing monitoring to give your pet the best possible chance of recovery.
When should I contact a veterinarian?
Immediately.
If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate or any potentially toxic food, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Early intervention often leads to the best outcomes and can prevent a minor incident from becoming a medical emergency.
Sources:
The following articles were used as sources when writing this blog:
Cats
Feline asthma is a chronic respiratory condition in cats. Know the signs. We provide diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and emergency care in Ceres.
Feline asthma in cats: symptoms, causes and treatment
Feline asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects a cat’s airways and breathing. While it can be frightening to witness, especially during a coughing or breathing episode, most cats with asthma can live long and comfortable lives with proper veterinary care and ongoing management.
Understanding the symptoms, risk factors and treatment options can help you recognise the condition early and seek appropriate care for your cat.
Respiratory health is just one of the many areas in which our team can assist. If your cat is showing signs of feline asthma, such as coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing, we can help with diagnosis, treatment planning, long-term management and ongoing monitoring to help keep your pet comfortable and healthy. Our services include clinical examinations, diagnostic testing, X-rays, emergency care, medication management and personalised advice on reducing environmental triggers in your cat’s home.
What is feline asthma?
Feline asthma occurs when the airways become inflamed and overly sensitive to environmental triggers. This inflammation causes the airways to narrow, making it difficult for affected cats to breathe normally.
The condition can develop suddenly or progress gradually over time. In some cases, symptoms are mild and intermittent, while others may experience more severe respiratory episodes requiring urgent veterinary attention.
Which cats are most at risk?
Although any cat can develop asthma, some appear to be more susceptible than others.
Risk factors may include:
- Siamese cats and related breeds
- Cats between two and eight years of age
- Overweight or obese cats
- Cats exposed to airborne irritants
- Female cats (according to some studies)
It is estimated that between 1% and 5% of cats may be affected by feline asthma.
Common asthma triggers in cats
Environmental irritants often play a role in triggering or worsening asthma symptoms.
Common triggers include:
- Cigarette smoke
- Dusty cat litter
- Pollen
- Household dust
- Air fresheners and diffusers
- Hair sprays and aerosol products
- Certain parasites that affect the lungs
Reducing exposure to known triggers can help minimise flare-ups and improve your cat’s quality of life.
What are the symptoms of feline asthma?
The most common sign of feline asthma is a persistent or recurring cough. Many owners initially mistake these episodes for hairballs because cats may crouch low to the ground and retch without producing anything.
Other symptoms may include:
- Wheezing
- Rapid or laboured breathing
- Difficulty breathing
- Increased effort when exhaling
- Open-mouth breathing during severe episodes
- Reduced activity levels
If your cat develops any persistent cough or breathing difficulty, a veterinary examination is recommended as soon as possible.
When should I be concerned about my cat coughing?
Any ongoing cough warrants veterinary attention.
While occasional coughing can occur for various reasons, repeated coughing episodes should never be ignored. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term airway damage and improve treatment outcomes.
In severe cases, untreated respiratory disease may place additional strain on the heart and other body systems.
How is feline asthma diagnosed?
There is no single test that confirms feline asthma. Your veterinarian will first need to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, including infections, heart disease and parasites.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Chest X-rays
- Faecal examinations
- Urine testing
- Heartworm screening
- FIV and FeLV testing
- Airway sampling in selected cases
A detailed history from the owner is also extremely valuable in reaching an accurate diagnosis.
Can feline asthma be treated?
Yes. While feline asthma cannot usually be cured, it can often be successfully managed.
Treatment commonly involves anti-inflammatory medication, often corticosteroids, which help reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing. In some cases, these medications may be administered using a specialised feline inhaler.
Bronchodilators may also be prescribed to help open the airways when necessary.
Cats experiencing a severe asthma attack may require emergency treatment, including oxygen therapy and hospitalisation.
Caring for a cat with asthma
Long-term management plays an important role in keeping asthmatic cats comfortable.
To help manage the condition:
- Minimise exposure to known triggers
- Administer medication exactly as prescribed
- Never stop treatment without veterinary guidance
- Attend regular follow-up appointments
- Monitor for changes in symptoms
- Report any medication side effects promptly
Consistency is key. Even when symptoms appear well controlled, ongoing treatment and monitoring remain important.
What is the prognosis for cats with asthma?
The outlook for most cats with asthma is very good. With appropriate treatment and environmental management, many affected cats enjoy a normal lifespan and excellent quality of life.
Regular veterinary check-ups, adherence to medication and reducing exposure to triggers all contribute to successful long-term management.
If you notice coughing, wheezing or breathing difficulties in your cat, contact your veterinarian promptly for an assessment.
Sources:
This article was adapted from the following sources:
Dogs
Dogs use their paws to communicate. Learn what your dog’s pawing behaviour means and when it may require attention.
Why do dogs put their paws on people?
Many dog owners are familiar with the gentle (or sometimes not-so-gentle) paw placed on an arm, leg or lap. While it may seem like a simple gesture, pawing is one of the ways dogs communicate with people.
In most cases, a dog placing a paw on a person is perfectly normal behaviour. It can be a sign of affection, attention-seeking, excitement, reassurance-seeking or simply a learned behaviour that has been rewarded in the past.
Understanding the reason behind the behaviour can help strengthen your bond with your dog and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed.
What does it mean when a dog puts its paw on you?
Dogs communicate primarily through body language. Unlike people, they cannot tell us exactly what they need, so they rely on behaviours that get our attention.
Common reasons for pawing include:
- Seeking attention
- Requesting affection
- Wanting to play
- Asking for food or a treat
- Seeking reassurance when feeling anxious
- Communicating excitement
- Reinforcing a behaviour that has previously earned a response
The context in which the pawing occurs often provides the biggest clue as to what your dog is trying to communicate.
Is pawing a sign of affection?
Often, yes.
Many dogs learn that placing a paw on their owner results in physical contact, talking, cuddling or attention. Over time, the behaviour becomes a natural way for them to interact with the people they trust.
If your dog appears relaxed, has a soft body posture and is seeking closeness, pawing is often simply another way of expressing affection and strengthening social bonds.
Can pawing indicate anxiety or stress?
Sometimes.
Dogs that are feeling uncertain, nervous or stressed may paw at their owners as a way of seeking reassurance. This is particularly common during thunderstorms, fireworks, travel, veterinary visits or unfamiliar situations.
If pawing is accompanied by signs such as panting, trembling, pacing, hiding or clingy behaviour, it may indicate that your dog is feeling anxious rather than simply seeking attention.
When should I be concerned about pawing?
Most pawing behaviour is harmless. However, sudden changes in behaviour should always be monitored.
It may be worth seeking veterinary advice if:
- The behaviour develops suddenly
- Pawing becomes excessive or obsessive
- Your dog appears distressed
- There are signs of pain or discomfort
- The behaviour is accompanied by other changes in appetite, energy levels or temperament
In some cases, underlying medical conditions, pain or cognitive changes can influence a dog’s behaviour.
Can pawing be discouraged?
If the behaviour has become excessive, it can often be managed through training and consistency.
Helpful approaches include:
- Avoid rewarding unwanted pawing with attention
- Reward calm behaviour instead
- Provide regular mental stimulation and exercise
- Teach alternative behaviours such as “sit” or “settle”
- Ensure your dog’s physical and emotional needs are being met
Consistency from all family members is important to avoid sending mixed messages.
How can we help?
Understanding canine behaviour can sometimes be challenging, particularly when a behaviour changes suddenly or becomes problematic
At Ceres Veterinary Hospital, we work closely with Dr Laura McIntyre of Just Nuisance Veterinary Behaviour Consultancy, who provides professional veterinary behavioural support for dogs and cats. Whether your dog is displaying attention-seeking behaviours, anxiety, aggression, compulsive behaviours or other behavioural concerns, we can help identify potential underlying medical causes and develop an appropriate management plan. Through a combination of veterinary assessment, behavioural expertise and practical guidance, we aim to help pets and their owners enjoy happier, healthier relationships.
What is the outlook?
In most cases, pawing is a normal part of canine communication and not something owners need to worry about. Understanding why your dog is using this behaviour can help you respond appropriately and strengthen your relationship.
If you notice sudden behavioural changes or have concerns about your dog’s wellbeing, our team is here to help.
Sources used to draft this article:
Animal Behaviour
Do pets really love their owners, or are they just after food? Explore the science behind the bond between people and pets.
Do pets really love their owners?
Few questions spark more debate among pet owners than whether our pets truly love us. Most of us have experienced the enthusiastic greeting of a dog at the front door, the comforting purr of a cat curled up beside us, or the feeling of a pet seeking us out when they need reassurance. But are these signs of genuine affection, or are our pets simply responding to food, routine and familiarity? While animals do not experience emotions exactly as humans do, research increasingly suggests that many pets form meaningful emotional attachments to the people who care for them.
How do pets form bonds with people?
The relationship between pets and people develops through thousands of everyday interactions. Food, safety, play, affection and routine all contribute to building trust. Over time, pets learn that their owners provide security and comfort, creating strong social bonds. Scientists studying animal behaviour have found that dogs, in particular, actively seek proximity to their owners and often show signs of distress when separated from them. Cats may be more subtle in their displays of affection, but many also form strong attachments to familiar people and environments.
What does science say about pet affection?
One of the strongest pieces of evidence comes from studies examining oxytocin, often referred to as the “bonding hormone”. In both humans and animals, oxytocin plays an important role in social attachment and positive relationships. Research has shown that dogs experience increased oxytocin levels during positive interactions with their owners. Interestingly, owners experience similar hormonal changes when interacting with their dogs. This suggests that the bond between dogs and humans may be biologically reinforced in both directions. Studies involving cats have found evidence of similar responses, although generally less pronounced than those seen in dogs.
Do dogs love their owners?
Dogs are highly social animals that have evolved alongside humans for thousands of years.
Many behaviours commonly seen in dogs suggest strong emotional attachment, including:
- Following their owners around
- Seeking physical contact
- Greeting family members enthusiastically
- Looking to owners for reassurance
- Showing signs of distress when separated
While we cannot know exactly what a dog experiences emotionally, behavioural research strongly supports the idea that dogs form deep social bonds with the people in their lives.
Do cats love their owners?
Cats often receive an unfair reputation for being aloof or indifferent. In reality, cats express affection differently from dogs. Rather than dramatic greetings or constant attention-seeking, cats often show trust and attachment through more subtle behaviours.
Common signs of affection include:
- Purring
- Slow blinking
- Head rubbing
- Kneading with their paws
- Sleeping near their owners
- Following people from room to room
Many cats seek out human companionship and appear to derive comfort from being close to trusted family members.
Are pets only interested in food?
Food certainly plays an important role in the relationship between pets and owners, but it is unlikely to be the whole story. Most pet owners have experienced moments when their pet sought comfort, companionship or reassurance despite there being no food involved. Dogs resting beside their owners during difficult times, or cats choosing to sleep close to a family member, suggest that the relationship extends beyond simple reward-based behaviour. The strongest human-animal bonds are built on far more than feeding schedules.
Why do pets seek comfort from their owners?
Just as children seek comfort from trusted caregivers, many pets turn to familiar people when they feel uncertain or stressed. During thunderstorms, fireworks, illness or unfamiliar situations, pets often look to their owners for reassurance. This behaviour reflects trust and attachment and demonstrates the important role owners play in their pets’ emotional wellbeing.
How can we strengthen the bond with our pets?
Strong bonds are built through positive interactions and consistent care. You can strengthen your relationship with your pet by:
- Spending quality time together
- Providing regular exercise and enrichment
- Using positive reinforcement training
- Respecting your pet’s boundaries
- Maintaining predictable routines
- Ensuring good physical and emotional health
Every pet is different, and each relationship develops in its own unique way.
How can we help?
Understanding your pet’s behaviour is an important part of building a healthy relationship. At Ceres Veterinary Hospital, we are passionate about helping pets and their owners enjoy long, happy lives together. We also work closely with Dr Laura McIntyre of Just Nuisance Veterinary Behaviour Consultancy, who provides professional veterinary behavioural support for dogs and cats. Whether you have questions about attachment, anxiety, social behaviour or behavioural changes, our team can help you better understand your pet and strengthen the bond you share.
So, do pets love us?
Science cannot tell us exactly what a pet feels. What it can tell us is that dogs, cats and many other animals form strong social bonds, seek comfort from trusted people and often choose to spend time with those who care for them. Whether you call it affection, attachment, trust or love, the bond between people and their pets is one of the most remarkable relationships in the animal world.
https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/jul/16/do-our-pets-ever-really-love-us-or-do-they-just-stick-around-for-the-food
https://companyofanimals.com/uk/how-do-dogs-show-love/
