Urgent pet warning over ‘toxic’ Easter treats that could be deadly – how to avoid huge vet bill this weekend
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.
“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.
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
Previously, data from online vet consultation service PawSquad, in collaboration with Admiral Insurance, revealed phone calls about chocolate poisoning in cats and dogs doubled the Easter before.
Pritpal Powar, head of pet insurance at Admiral, said: “Easter can be a busy time and it’s easy to be distracted with visitors in our homes.
“This can mean that pets are more likely to overindulge in table scraps and non-pet foods given by owners or well-meaning house guests.
“Some of these can be dangerous for dogs and cats.”