Cross referenced from RFUK
Apparently a skunk rescue centre in the states lost 18 skunks with more still critically ill through feeding avocado! After an investigation, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Centre (APPC) decided to put out a warning, a copy of which follows below.
Forbidden Fruit: Popular Avocado Can Poison Your Pet
A slice of avocado may be the perfect addition to your sandwich, but it can have serious consequences for our feathered and furry friends.
According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, IL, pet poisonings from avocado and avocado-based foods like guacamole are a consistent risk.
In 2008, the Center managed 115 cases involving ingestion of avocado, and though an overwhelming 83 percent of those incidents involved dogs, the most devastating effects were seen in birds, rabbits and certain large animals like horses and cattle.
A native of Central and South America, avocado (Persea americana) is a subtropical tree that produces a pear-shaped fruit prized for its high fat content, vitamin-rich “meat” and smooth texture.
Unfortunately, the fruit also contains a toxin called persin that’s harmful to animals, especially in large quantities.
"Avocado leaves, fruit, seeds and bark all contain the toxic principle known as persin,”
says Dana Farbman, CVT, Senior Manager of Professional Communications at APCC.
Guatemalan varieties—sold in grocery stores nationwide—are most often involved in pet exposures, Farbman adds, while other strains have varying degrees of toxic potential.
Birds—who accounted for 5 percent of avocado cases in 2008—appear to be particularly sensitive to the fatty fruit; consumption can result in respiratory distress, congestion, fluid accumulation around the heart and even death.
In curious canines, clinical signs of ingestion can include gastrointestinal distress, vomiting and diarrhea.
Typically, these effects are seen in dogs who’ve nibbled on significant amounts of a tree’s fruit or branches.
Pet parents should prevent their animal companions from coming into contact with avocado by placing the fruit—or that festive bowl of guacamole—out of reach.
For those lucky Californians who have an avocado tree in their backyards, keep a close eye on your pet when heReptile Forums UK - Post New Thread’s outside, and don’t mistake the toxic fruit for Fido’s gnarly tennis ball.
As always, if you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, please call your vet or the ASPCA’s 24-hour hotline at (888 426-4435. For more information about people food that’s toxic for pets, please visit
http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc&JServSessionIdr001=e9e8pd8gt2.app26bWhat are the most common food hazards I should be aware of?
Experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center urge you to avoid feeding the following foods to your pet:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Avocado
- Chocolate (all forms)
- Coffee (all forms)
- Fatty foods
- Macadamia nuts
- Moldy or spoiled foods
- Onions, onion powder
- Raisins and grapes
- Salt
- Yeast dough
- Garlic
- Products sweetened with xylitol
For information on additional foods that may be potentially hazardous, please visit:
ASPCA: Ask the Animal Poison Control Center: Okay or No Way?: People Food
