Pet Health

Tips for a Safer Easter with your Pets

For many of us, Easter means time with friends and family, a long weekend, and plenty of treats! For our pets, many of these treats are actually health hazards, so it's important to know what is and isn't safe for your pet at Easter time. For vets, Easter usually means a spike of emergency cases due to these hazards - In fact, Easter is one of the busiest times of the year for veterinary emergencies! 

Let's help keep your Easter weekend more relaxed this year by keeping your four-legged family members safe and out of trouble. To do so, we've compiled a list of common hazards at Easter time, and tips of what to look for and what to do if you suspect your pet has also indulged in an Easter treat!

1. Easter Chocolate

While an Easter Egg hunt is often a must during Easter, it's best to keep your pets away from the action! Chocolate is dangerous because it contains caffeine and theobromine, both of which are toxic chemicals for cats and dogs. The higher the cocoa content, the more potent the chocolate is. 

2. Hot Cross Buns

Traditional hot cross buns contain raisins and sultanas, both of which are toxic to dogs with potential to cause renal failure. Unfortunately there is no known 'safe limit' for grapes, raisins or sultanas, so it is always best to call your closest open vet if you suspect your pup has ingested any. 

3. Easter Lilies

Lilies are one of the most toxic plants for cats. It's best to keep these out of your home to avoid any possibility of toxicity all year round. 

4. Easter Decorations & Toys

The plastic grass in Easter baskets, decorations and toys can all cause intestinal blockages when ingested. Be sure to know what decorations you've put out and where you've placed them in the event any go missing!

5. Leftovers from Easter Lunch

While it may be tempting to include your furry family members at meal times over the long weekend, many favourite human treats are not suitable for our pet's stomachs. Fatty cuts of meat, pork, onion and garlic are a few common culprits that can result in illness from sore stomachs to pancreatitis and severe toxicity. 

Posted in Pet Health at 27 March 25