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FALL
ACORNS
As the trees are changing colors, the oaks are often dropping their acorns at about the same time. Acorns can be problematic primarily in dogs as many dogs like to eat them. Eating acorns can cause two main problems: obstruction and toxicity.
Obstruction
The first potential problem with acorns is that if swallowed whole by the right size animal, they can actually cause a blockage of the stomach or intestine that may require surgery to correct. Plant products are sometimes difficult to see on a routine x-ray which can delay the diagnosis and therefore the treatment. Sometimes they can only be found on special x-ray procedures requiring dyes (contrast media) that show up on the x-ray film and surround the acorn making it more visible.
Toxicity
The second potential problem with acorns can be a source of toxicity in two ways. Acorns have high levels of tannins which can cause gastritis and vomiting. The vomiting can lead to dehydration, the gastritis may lead to stomach ulceration. The other potential toxin is not actually from the acorn but the molds that may grow on acorns that have been sitting for a while. Many of these molds release what are called "tremorgenic mycotoxins" which can cause seizures, some of which may be fatal if severe enough.
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