With Spring in full swing and Easter just around the corner, it's easy to become overwhelmed with excitement and forget that our pets have different tolerance levels to us humans. Many of the foods, flowers and festivities typically associated with Easter have the potential to be dangerous to our beloved pets. Below is an array of relevant seasonal advice that can help you keep your pets safe this Easter. 

 

Chocolate

It is a well-known fact that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but did you know that it is equally as toxic to other household pets too? It contains a chemical called theobromine which pets cannot digest in the same way as humans. The outcome depends on the amount and type of chocolate ingested. However, there is the potential for it to be fatal so it is best to stay clear completely. The affects range from sickness and diarrhoea, to seizures, internal bleeding and heart attacks.

For more information regarding pets and chocolate, click here. 

 

Hot Cross Buns

Perhaps this is surprising but hot cross buns are actually highly toxic to dogs in particular and can result in kidney failure (which is sometimes fatal). This is because most hot cross buns contain raisins, or other dried fruits such as sultanas and currants which dogs should avoid at all costs. Nutmeg is another common ingredient in hot cross buns, which too is potentially dangerous as it contains a hallucinogenic toxin called myristicin. 

 

Sweets

Normal sweets have a high sugar content and sugar-free sweets contain xylitol, so both are dangerous for pets to consume. High amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain and dental issues, where as xylitol can cause dangerously low blood sugar levels and liver damage.

 

Bones

If you are cooking up a Sunday roast, don't be tempted to give your dog any bones as they are prone to splitting which can lead to fragments getting lodged in your dog's throat, resulting in choking.

 

Eggs

Whether real eggs, chocolate eggs or plastic eggs - all eggs are equally as hazardous to pets and can cause serious stomach upset if swallowed. This can lead to intestinal blockages. Remember this when you are planning eggs hunts and hiding eggs in places that are easy for pets to reach.

 

Decorations

Easter is a time where children like to get creative and may want to make decorative Easter baskets. However, be careful when having craft supplies laying around the house as pets may mistake them for toys. They are often small enough to swallow, posing a potential choking hazard and causing intestinal blockages. This includes synthetic grass and hay too. 

 

Flowers

It is important to be aware of harmful Springtime plants in the coming months, not just at Easter, as many are toxic and some are poisonous. Examples include lilies, hyacinth, tulips, daffodils and crocus. They can result in excessive drooling, loss of appetite, intense vomiting and diarrhoea. Where possible, try to keep your pets away from these but always keep a close eye on them for any sneaky snacking whilst in the garden or on pretty woodland walks.

 

Cleaning Products

When doing any Spring cleaning, remember many cleaning products and equipment can be problematic for pets. Common household cleaners like bleach and laundry detergent are toxic for pets so it is advisable to keep them safely out of reach, and be careful when using heavily scented disinfectants and diffusers.