Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and delicious treats. However, while we enjoy spring, it’s essential to be mindful of potential hazards that could put our pets at risk.
From harmful foods to hazardous plants, Easter presents several dangers for pets. Let’s take the necessary steps to keep them safe this season.
Easter Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the biggest dangers to pets during Easter. Many of us hide Easter eggs around the house or garden, but remember, dogs and cats have an excellent sense of smell and can easily find and consume chocolate if left within reach.
Why is chocolate poisonous to dogs?
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is highly toxic to pets and can cause serious health issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, seizures, and even death in severe cases.
How much chocolate is poisonous to dogs?
This depends on the dog’s size, the type of chocolate, and the amount consumed.
As a general rule, dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most toxic, with as little as 20mg of theobromine per 1000 grams of body weight potentially causing symptoms, while mild toxicity can occur at 42grams of milk chocolate per 4.5kg of bodyweight.
Tip: Keep all Easter chocolate well out of reach of your pets and educate children about the dangers of sharing their treats.
Grapes, Currants, Sultanas, and Raisins
Many Easter treats, such as hot cross buns and fruit cakes, contain dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants. These can be extremely toxic to pets, even in small amounts.
When ingested, the toxic compounds found in these dried fruits can lead to a sudden decrease in kidney function, causing symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and dehydration.
In severe cases, this can progress to acute kidney failure, where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste from the bloodstream, potentially resulting in fatal consequences if left untreated.
Tip: Avoid giving your pets any baked goods, and be cautious about leaving food unattended on tables where they could sneak a bite.
Spring Blooms
Easter is often celebrated with beautiful spring flowers, but some of these blooms can be dangerous to pets.
Lilies, particularly for cats, can cause severe kidney failure even if just a small amount is ingested.
Daffodils contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy if eaten.
Tip: If you have pets, opt for pet-safe flowers such as roses and sunflowers.
Sunday Roast
It might be tempting to share your Easter Sunday roast with your pet, but certain ingredients commonly found in these meals can be harmful.
Onion, garlic, and chives can cause severe digestive issues and damage red blood cells. Also, cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or severe internal injuries.
Tip: Stick to pet-friendly treats and keep your pet’s diet consistent to avoid any digestive upset.
Signs Of Poisoning In Pets
If your pet has ingested something toxic, symptoms may include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy or weakness
- Seizures
- Rapid or irregular heart rate
- Tremors
- Loss of coordination
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our team immediately.
What to Do If Your Pet Has Ingested Something Poisonous
If you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic, follow these steps:
- Stay calm as panicking can make it harder to help your pet.
- Remove the source so that they can’t ingest any more of the toxic substance.
- Call us immediately and provide details about what your pet may have ingested, the amount, and when it happened.
- Do not try to induce vomiting or administer home remedies unless instructed.
What To Tell Our Team
When calling our veterinary practice, be prepared to provide:
- The type of toxin ingested (e.g., chocolate, grapes, flowers)
- Approximate quantity consumed
- The time of ingestion
- Any symptoms your pet is showing
- Your pet’s breed, age, and weight
How Is Pet Poisoning Treated?
Treatment will depend on the type of toxin ingested but may include:
- Inducing vomiting (only if recommended by a vet)
- Activated charcoal to absorb toxins
- IV fluids to flush toxins from the system
- Medications to manage symptoms such as seizures or heart irregularities
- Hospitalisation in severe cases for monitoring and supportive care
Keeping Your Pets Safe This Easter
By taking a few precautions, you can ensure that your pet stays safe and happy during the Easter celebrations.
Keep toxic foods and flowers out of reach, educate family members on pet safety, and be vigilant about any unusual behaviour in your pet.
If in doubt, always seek veterinary advice promptly.
From all of us at Aldgate Vets, we wish you and your pets a safe and joyful Easter!
