Chocolate, mince pies, socks, golf balls, and rubber ducks have all caused issues for the nation’s cats and dogs in the past year, according to new internal data from Tesco Bank.
The data highlights the more unusual things eaten by pets which have resulted in a trip to the vets. This is either because the thing they’ve swallowed is toxic or it has caused a blockage in their stomach or intestines.
The findings highlight that many things you might find around the house can cause serious damage to our much-loved four-legged friends.
Analysis of the 2022 internal claims data shows that across puppies, dogs, kittens, and cats, foreign body – gastric was one of the most common accident claims. Puppies swallowing something they shouldn’t resulted in 41% (516) claims last year, with the average claim paid amounting to £1,215. This rises in adult dogs to 51% (638) claims last year, with the average claim paid being £1,561.
Kittens and cats are much less likely to gobble up things they shouldn’t, but still nearly 100 claims were made in 2022, with an average claim value of £12,936.
Things eaten by dogs and cats that Tesco Bank has received toxicity claims on:
- Chocolate
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Xylitol
- Mushrooms
- Flowers
- Batteries
- Sweets
- Fruits
- Onions/Onion Bhaji
- Mince Pies
Things eaten by dogs and cats that Tesco Bank has received claims related to stomach/intestinal blockages:
- Socks
- Pet toys
- Kids toys
- Sanitary Towels
- Chicken Bones
- Corn on the Cob
- Stones
- Golf balls
- Bras/Underwear
- Peach/nectarine stones
- Bones
- Cocktail Sticks
Alex Cross, Insurance Director at Tesco Bank commented: “Anyone with a dog will know that the old excuse ‘my dog ate my homework’ is far closer to the truth than one might think. Our internal claims reveal that some pets are tempted to eat whatever they can get their paws on, which can lead to unexpected bills.
“That being said, it does serve as a reminder that pet owners should take care of where they leave their things in case they’re in reach of their mischievous pups or curious cats. Ensure that any food is in the fridge or cupboards and try to keep personal belongings tucked away from view to avoid any emergency trips to the vets.”
