Nutrition

Dogs may suffer Intoxication (poisoning) when they ingest, inhale, or come into contact with a harmful substance. Dogs are naturally curious and often explore the world with their mouths, which increases their risk of exposure to toxins. Puppies and young dogs are particularly at risk, though any age or breed can be affected.

Cats can develop food allergies at any time in their lives, even if they’ve been eating the same diet for years. Around 1% of all cats, and up to 15% of itchy cats, are affected. The most common signs are itchy skin, ear infections, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Food allergies in dogs are surprisingly common. Around 10% of all allergies in dogs are linked to food. They can appear at any stage of your dog’s life and even if your dog has been eating the same diet for years. The most frequent signs include itchy skin, repeated ear infections, and digestive upsets such as vomiting or diarrhoea.

Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts, and can trigger sudden kidney failure. The exact cause of this toxicity is still unknown, but the effects can be devastating, making immediate veterinary care critical.

Xylitol poisoning affects cats very differently from dogs. While even small amounts can be life-threatening for dogs, cats appear naturally resistant, except at extremely high doses. This resistance is thought to come from both their lack of interest in sweet foods and the way their bodies process the chemical. However, individual cats may still be vulnerable. While xylitol poisoning in cats is uncommon and typically less severe than in dogs, certain situations warrant immediate veterinary attention.

Allium toxicity is one of the more serious forms of food poisoning observed in dogs and, unfortunately, is relatively common here in Dubai, where many beloved dishes are rich in these aromatic ingredients.

Xylitol poisoning is one of the most serious emergencies in dogs, particularly as sugar-free and low-sugar products become increasingly common across the world. This artificial sweetener, found in everyday items like chewing gum, mints, toothpaste and diabetic-friendly snacks, can trigger a sudden, dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) in dogs, and even liver failure, within hours.

One of the most common kitchen dangers for cats is the allium family of foods. This includes onions, garlic, and their relatives. Vets in Dubai see cases of cats falling ill after sneaking just a small bite, and it can be frightening for owners to realise how toxic these foods really are.

As a cat owner in Dubai, you might enjoy sharing the occasional healthy snack with your feline friend. However, some foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be extremely dangerous for cats. Grapes and raisins are among the most serious toxic foods your cat could encounter, and understanding this risk could save your pet's life.

Dogs are notorious for being curious eaters. If it's a fallen chip on the kitchen floor or toast on the table, a lot of dogs won't think twice about gobbling up whatever smells even remotely edible. However, not all that's safe for human consumption is necessarily safe for dogs.

As a dog owner, you're probably always on the lookout for natural and wholesome ways to promote your dog's health. One such remedy that's been growing more and more popular over recent years is bone broth.

Diarrheal issues among dogs are a subject of worry to many pet owners, and it is caused by a range of possible triggers, ranging from dietary changes to infections or even stress. Diarrhea in dogs prompts pet owners to question if there are any safe and efficient natural ways to calm their stomach.