TVM UK, the innovative animal health company has launched new guidelines in time for Christmas to offer vets advice on how to deal with Allium toxins which are often found in Christmas cooking.
The Allium species includes onions, garlic, and their relatives. All members of the Allium family are poisonous to cats and dogs and even minimal amounts can be dangerous. For example, a 5kg cat would only need to ingest 1-2 garlic cloves to show clinical signs. Poisoning causes haemolytic anaemia with treatment being supportive, as there is no antidote. In severe cases blood transfusions may be required.
Powdered versions of these plants are more concentrated and are often used in gravy and stuffing in the traditional Christmas dinner, so toxicity can occur much more easily.
Will Peel, Product Manager at TVM UK says:
“Alliums are toxic to animals and as there is no antidote it’s important that veterinary staff are fully prepared and are able to react quickly and provide the best care possible.
“Our focus is on helping veterinary staff prepare for all eventualities so we hope that these new guidelines will prove beneficial.”
The easy to follow guidelines offer clear, concise advice on treating animals with suspected or confirmed Allium poisoning and complement TVM UK’s current comprehensive set of free poisoning guidelines.
The guidelines can be downloaded for free from its website.
