Easter can be a fun and exciting time for many when we can enjoy a nice break and some much-needed downtime with our pets.
Whether you’re enjoying nice long walks with your dog or tucking into your favourite chocolate egg, as a pet owner it’s important to remember the hazards for pets that can come with Easter time. Many pet owners see their pet as one of the family and like to include them in the celebrations or festivities.
To help keep your pets healthy and safe this Easter, we highlight some hazards for pet owners to be aware of:
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a powerful stimulant called theobromine that pets can’t cope with, so even the smallest amount can be toxic. Keep all chocolate eggs and treats out of reach from your pets and let other family members know not to feed them to your pet. Keep some of your dog or cat’s favourite treat to hand while you are enjoying your Easter egg to ensure they don’t beg or feel left out.
Hot cross buns
Hot cross buns are a common yummy treat around Easter time and can contain raisins, currants, or sultanas. These are all foods that are toxic to cats and dogs and could cause tummy upsets and for your pet to feel unwell. Be sure to keep these out of reach from your pet, especially if they are left alone in the house – be sure they are all hidden away.
Easter grass
Colourful grasses are often used to line Easter baskets for Easter egg hunts or decoration. These usually contain plastic materials, which can be harmful to pets if swallowed. Try using alternatives like tissue paper and keep all decorations out of reach from pets.
Easter plants
Flowers and plants that add some colour to our homes or gardens at this time of year, such as daffodils and lilies can be toxic to our pets. Lilies contain unknown toxins that if ingested by cats can cause tummy upsets, even a small amount can result in kidney failure. Daffodils contain poisonous alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive salivation in pets. The bulbs are the most dangerous part.
Spring bulbs
All spring bulbs and often what grows out of them are poisonous to pets. Dogs are most likely to be affected as they can be curious when in the garden and root them up, especially when freshly planted or coming into flower in spring.
Roast dinner
Many of us will sit down to enjoy a roast dinner at Easter, but don’t be tempted to feed your pet scraps from the dinner table. Fatty pork or ham can lead to upset tummies for our pets. Be sure to make other family members aware they should not feed scraps to your cat or dog. Give your pet some yummy treats to enjoy whilst you sit down for your dinner to stop them from begging.
Easter egg hunts
These can be fun for the family at Easter, but when all the eggs have been found or the family has given up, be sure to collect all remaining eggs so your dog isn’t tempted by them. Even if you use plastic or boiled eggs these can still cause problems.
House guests
If you have family visiting over the Easter weekend, be mindful of pets who may become anxious with new people in the home. Be aware of open windows and doors, to stop them from escaping if they become stressed.
Spring cleaning
Be aware of household cleaning products and don’t leave them lying around the house for your pet to sniff out. Commercial cleaning products, almost without exception, contain chemicals that are toxic to your dog or cat. Try switching to non-toxic household cleaning products.
If you are worried that your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, consult your vet straight away.
