Easter is coming…
We’ve all heard that chocolate is toxic to pets, but why is this the case, exactly? And what other dangers are around at Easter time for our pets? Read on for our Easter safety tips.
The ins-and-outs of chocolate toxicity
Chocolate contains two substances that can harm your pet: theobromine and caffeine. These substances come from the beans of the cacao tree, and cause the heart rate to increase and beat irregularly, causing hyperactivity. The darker the chocolate and larger the volume, the higher the risk. Even the slightest bit of chocolate can be harmful. The amounts below can cause impaired heart activity, seizures, or worse:
3kg dog – 80g milk chocolate
10kg dog – 200g milk chocolate
35kg dog – 430g milk chocolate.
It’s not only the cacao substances that can cause illness. Chocolate can also cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and pancreatitis due to the large volume of fats and sugars. Use the chocolate toxicity calculator to check if the amount of chocolate your pet has ingested is in the danger zone.
If your pet has ingested any chocolate, it is best to contact a vet straight away to provide treatment. The earlier the better.
Hot Cross Buns
Sultanas and raisins and choc chips, oh my…Hot cross buns are filled with yummy additives for us, but harmful to our pets. These common bun fillers can cause significant damage to a dog or cat’s kidneys, especially if eaten in large quantities. Click here to download our toxic food guide for pets.
Lollies
Lollies and other sweet items may contain xylitol – an artificial sweetener that can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure or death. Check the packaging on any lollies you buy that they are artificial-sweetener-free, just in case an accident happens and your pet gets into them.
Roast dinners
Be mindful if your pet is after the scraps from the roast dinner with the family. Cooked bones or food on skewers are a big no-no. They can easily splinter in the digestive tract, and can cause lacerations. Bones of any kind (cooked or raw), as well as corn cobs, and fruit seeds can often lead to what’s called a foreign-body, which can cause constipation, or blockages requiring surgery to remove them. Steer clear if possible.
What to do if your pet has ingested a baddie?
Contact us, or your nearest emergency vet. We refer to the Newcastle Animal Emergency Centre at times when we are closed. They can be located at 4 Lang Road, Broadmeadow and reached at (02) 49577106. You can call any vet for advice if you think your pet has eaten something, or if you need to arrange a pressing visit.
What to give your pet instead?
Let your pet join in on the Easter fun by baking them some pet-safe treats, such as these gorgeous doggie cakes, (take care if your pet has food allergies, sensitivities, or a history of pancreatitis), or provide them with a new toy to play with while the family is celebrating.
We wish everyone a safe and happy Easter break, and hope there are no unfortunate accidents along the way.
