Easter Hazards for Pets: What to Watch Out for This Holiday
- Em
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
Easter is a time for celebration, but while we enjoy chocolate eggs, festive treats, and decorations, it’s important to keep our furry friends safe. Many common Easter items can pose risks to pets, so being aware of potential hazards can help ensure a fun and safe holiday for everyone.
Easter Hazards for Pets
1. Chocolate and Sweets
Chocolate is one of the most well-known dangers for pets, especially dogs. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to pets and can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid heart rate, and even seizures. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
Other sweets, such as sugar-free lollies and gum, may contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure.
What to do: Keep all chocolate and sweets out of reach, and remind guests to avoid sharing treats with your pets.
2. Easter Lilies and Toxic Plants
Lilies are beautiful but highly toxic to cats. Even a small amount of pollen, petals, or water from a vase containing lilies can cause severe kidney damage. Other common Easter plants, such as daffodils and tulips, can also be harmful if ingested.
What to do: Opt for pet-safe flowers like roses or sunflowers, and keep all toxic plants well out of reach of curious pets.
3. Plastic Easter Grass and Decorations
Shiny plastic Easter grass may look festive in baskets, but if ingested by pets, it can cause serious digestive issues, including blockages that may require surgery. Similarly, small plastic decorations, eggs, and foil wrappers can be choking hazards.
What to do: Use shredded paper or fabric as a pet-safe alternative, and supervise pets around decorations.
4. Table Scraps and Rich Foods
Easter feasts often include foods that can be harmful to pets, such as ham (high in salt and fat), bones (which can splinter), and foods containing onions, garlic, or grapes. Even small amounts can lead to digestive upset or more serious health issues like pancreatitis.
What to do: Stick to your pet’s regular diet and avoid feeding them table scraps. If guests want to give treats, provide pet-safe options.
5. Hot Cross Buns and Raisins
Hot cross buns are an Easter staple, but they often contain raisins, currants, or sultanas—all of which are toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure, even in small amounts.
What to do: Keep hot cross buns out of reach and educate family and guests about their danger to pets.
6. Easter Egg Hunts and Forgotten Treats
If you’re hosting an Easter egg hunt, be mindful that pets may find hidden chocolate eggs or small toys before children do. Ingesting these can lead to poisoning or blockages.
What to do: Keep pets indoors during egg hunts, and do a thorough check to ensure all treats are found before letting them roam the area.
Easter can be a joyful time for the whole family—including your pets—with just a few precautions. By being mindful of these hazards, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your vet immediately.
🐾 Wishing you and your furry friends a happy and safe Easter! 🐾