Pet owners have been warned to exercise caution if decorating their homes with snowglobes this Christmas . The festive decoration is one of the most popular for many families across the country.
While lovely to look at, some of the decorations can be filled with a potentially fatal cocktail for our beloved pets . Snowglobes should be kept away from surfaces where they may be knocked over by adventurous cats or curious dogs .
Many snowglobes contain antifreeze , which is extremely toxic to pets. It is known to have a sweet scent, which is said to be an “irresistible” smell for a pet’s sensitive nose.
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Caroline Reay, head of veterinary services at national pet charity Blue Cross, said: “Snow globes shouldn’t be kept anywhere where they can be knocked over and smashed. They can contain a chemical called ethylene glycol, otherwise known as antifreeze, which is highly poisonous to cats and dogs and can prove fatal if treatment isn’t sought quickly.
“Even a small amount can seriously damage your pet's kidneys and symptoms may not appear for several days, and include lethargy, vomiting, seizures, and excessive drooling. You should always contact your vet immediately if you think your pet has eaten something dangerous or poisonous.”
The RSPCA has offered further tips for keeping animals safe during winter. It is keen to stress that rock salt, which is commonly used to prevent icy roads, can also be toxic to pets.
Keep any rocksalt in your home in a secure location. If you believe that your pet has ingested rock salt, contact your vet immediately.
Be sure to also check over their paws just in case any rock salt is left over and they lick at it. Towel dry any wet or cold pets after walks and make sure they have plenty of warm, dry bedding, too.
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