Easter is a fun time of year filled with spending time with family and pets, a relaxing long weekend, the annual Easter egg hunt and of course chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate! But for our pets, there are lots of hazards around which could turn a relaxing weekend into an emergency trip to the vet.

Easter eggs and chocolate – Chocolate is usually in abundance in most households when Easter comes around. Our pets are more likely to have the chance to hoover up sweet treats, especially if they are left around on low surfaces or on the floor. Although harmless to us chocolate can make dogs extremely ill and can even be fatal. This is due to a toxin called Theobromine. Pets metabolise this chemical much slower than humans, meaning it can have detrimental effects. Symptoms of Theobromine poisoning include muscle stiffness, tremors, vomiting, heart arrhythmias and seizures. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, we’d recommend you take them to your vet immediately.

Hot cross buns – Hot Cross buns are another food that we love to eat but can be dangerous to our pets as they contain raisins and other dried fruits Unfortunately these can cause kidney failure in both dogs and cats. Kidney failure classically causes increased thirst and urination; however, symptoms are usually seen weeks later when the secondary effects of reduced kidney function become evident.

Confectionary – Sweets and lollies are also a popular Easter favourite. Unfortunately, some sweets contain a substance called Xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener. It is extremely harmful to dogs and even a small amount can be toxic. If your dog eats sweets made with xylitol, monitor for any vomiting, lethargy, lack of coordination and seizures and seek veterinary advice.

Easter Baskets – Easter baskets are a lovely gift idea and are great for kids as you can put small toys and other treats in there. Small toys and filler material like straw and plastic grass (very appealing to cats as it’s fun to play with) are easily swallowed by pets. This is likely to cause digestive obstruction, which may lead to an emergency surgery. Symptoms may include persistent vomiting, bloating, weight loss, weakness and dehydration.

Lilies – Easter lilies (along with many other types of lilies) are often gifted around Easter time, and although they help to brighten the house up, they too can be extremely toxic to cats. Every part of the lily is dangerous; this even includes the water it’s sitting in! It causes kidney failure and can be fatal if treatment isn’t given quickly. Some of the signs your cat may be suffering from lily poisoning are as follows: dehydration, extreme thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and even death.

Sadly, the majority of toxins mentioned won’t show symptoms until the damage is already done and at which point it is not reversible, especially raisins and lilies which effect the kidney.

Wishing you all an enjoyable and safe Easter break.

Please feel free to pop in anytime and meet the team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital. For more information check out our Facebook, website www.orchardhillsvet.com.au , Instagram @orchardhillsvethospitalgrooms or call 02 4736 2027.

Article Written + Submitted by: Kellie Tickner from Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital
A: 377 Wentworth Rd, Orchard Hills P: 4736 2027