AN urgent pet warning has been issued over ‘toxic’ treats – and how to avoid them this weekend.
Experts have warned giving pets dangerous Easter treats could cost owners £260 for an emergency vet visit.
They have outlined what can be toxic to cat and dogs – in light of owners being tempted to indulge them.
First on the list is chocolate, which is well-known to be harmful to cats and dogs.
Fur King explained how “even a small amount can lead to vomiting, tremors, seizures or worse.”
Regarding Hot cross buns, which often contain raisins or sultanas, Blue Cross said: “Even if your dog eats a small quantity of these dried fruits (and grapes), they can suffer severe kidney failure which may be fatal.“
Many sweets contain artificial sweetener xylitol, which even in small quantities, can be very harmful to pets.
Although foil wrappers are not food, if ingested this could lead to internal damages or blockages.
Cream-filled eggs and desserts are also to be avoided – as most dogs and cats are lactose intolerant.
They therefore will have a hard time digesting such treats and may get diarrhea.
Last but not least, caffeine, which can be found in drinks or mocha-flavoured eggs, is also harmful to pets.
Fur King founder Tom Sadler said: “From chocolate eggs to hot cross buns, Easter is a time packed with human treats, but many of these are harmful to our furry friends.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”How will you spend your Easter holidays? Take our fun quiz for inspiration” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6371347153112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]“While it’s tempting to include your pets in every family celebration, it’s important to know which seasonal foods are strictly off-limits so as to avoid causing harm.”
Other ingredients to avoid include onion and garlic, macadamia nuts and alcohol.
Back in 2023, vets issued an urgent warning after a Bernese Mountain dog named Hattie almost died upon pinching her owner’s hot cross bun.
The pup sneakily grabbed this Easter treat after her owner Paul Beckwith turned his back.
Hattie was rushed to the vets where she was given an injection to make her throw up and minimise the risk.
Experts recommend reading labels carefully and checking with your vet before making changes to your pet’s diet.
Pets can enjoy bananas, strawberries, and blueberries in moderation, and special Easter-themed pet treats available from pet stores.
Data from online vet consultation service PawSquad, in collaboration with Admiral Insurance, revealed last year, the number of calls it dealt with from pet owners regarding chocolate toxicity rose by 350%.
[boxout headline=”What not to give your pet at Easter (or generally)”]Although owners may be tempted to involve their pets in festive celebrations, some ingredients must not be given to cats and dogs under any circumstances:
- Chocolate
- Hot cross buns
- Sweets and candy
- Xylitol
- Foil wrappers
- Cream-filled eggs and desserts
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Macadamia nuts
- Onion and garlic
This was compared to the equivalent two weeks to the month before Easter.
Dr. Melina Mihaylova, MRCVS, PawSquad Veterinarian and Clinical Support, highlighted symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting and lethargy.
She added: “As many of these symptoms are very unspecific, it is vital to quickly contact a veterinarian if there is the slightest chance your pet might have been in contact with a toxic substance.
“It is also very helpful to keep and show the packaging of the item your pet might have gotten hold of, as it gives veterinary professionals a better chance of correctly assessing the health risks and deciding on appropriate treatment.”
