Easter is a time for new beginnings. The days are lighter, the weather is warmer and we are starting to see signs of new life all around us. As with every celebratory period, there are more dangers than usual for your pets this Easter.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a favorite Easter treat. Many families will have a lot more chocolate in the house than usual this Easter. Easter eggs and other chocolate treats look tempting but can be a real danger. Chocolate can be very toxic to your pets and should therefore be kept out of their reach. Dogs in particular will consume enormous amounts of chocolate if given the chance. This can lead to vomiting and diarrhea and, in extreme circumstances, heart problems and seizures. The darker the chocolate, the greater the risk. The second danger posed by chocolates and Easter eggs is packaging. Dogs often eat chocolate with the wrappers still on. Cats are often attracted to the glittery packaging and try to eat it. The box and packaging if consumed can become lodged in the throat or digestive tract. This can cause a blockage that may require surgery to remove it.
Dried fruit
Many of our favorite Easter treats, such as hot cross buns or fruitcakes, contain raisins, sultanas, grapes and currants. Just one of these tasty little fruits can kill your pet by causing kidney failure. These sweet and fruity treats are all tempting for your pet, but eating them can have fatal consequences. It’s not just sugary treats that are at fault, dried fruits are also found hidden in sauces, bread stuffings, side dishes, pickles and preserves.
Sweeteners
Perhaps less well known are the toxic properties of sweets and sugar-free sweeteners. These are good for our waistline but often contain xylitol. This is toxic to cats and dogs. Even a small amount can affect your pet’s insulin level, causing hypoglycemia, which can lead to your pet falling into a coma.
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