Easter is a seasonal milestone, a time to get together with family as the seasons change. As we say goodbye to cooler weather, our pets will be at our sides, feet, or on our laps. There are several particular risks associated with the spring holiday that pet owners should be aware of. Read on for advice from a local Cherry Hill, NJ veterinarian on how to keep your pet safe.
Keep Chocolate Out Of Paws’ Reach.
Easter would not be complete without chocolate eggs and bunnies. Unfortunately, these tempting snacks are quite hazardous to our pets. Chocolate is especially problematic. It contains chemicals known as theobromine and caffeine, both of which are poisonous to mammals.
Some chocolate varieties are worse than others. Dark chocolate is the most harmful because it contains the highest amounts of both chemicals. However, even white chocolate is hazardous.
Keep a look out for indicators of ingesting. This includes the following:
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Thirst
- Tremors
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid/Erratic Pulse
- Fever
- Panting
- Abdominal Pain
Seizures, coma, and collapse are more severe symptoms of chocolate intake. Unfortunately, there is a potential that the incident could be fatal. If you observe anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Don’t Allow Pets Near The Candy Jar
Chocolate is not the only issue. Many sugar-free candies include xylitol, a chemical that can cause major problems, such as low blood sugar. It can potentially cause liver failure, and may be lethal to pets in quite small amounts. Dogs can suffer major negative effects after consuming only around an ounce of chocolate per pound of body weight. Keep in mind that birch sugar is also known as xylitol. It is found in a variety of baked items, including cakes, breads, and cookies.
Don’t Use Plastic Grass
Pretty Easter baskets are connected with springtime. Unfortunately, synthetic grass can be a real threat! Any sort of rope or string is extremely harmful. For one, it is a choking threat. Also, if pets swallow it, it may become trapped in their digestive track. This can cause obstructions and twisting, which can be life-threatening. These conditions might be so serious that your pet requires emergency surgery.
Use actual grass or tissue paper instead of plastic. If your pet swallows it, they are considerably more likely to digest it properly. (It would still be worth calling the vet, though.)
Keep Easter Baskets in Safe Places.
Easter baskets frequently contain little objects, such children toys and plastic eggs, which might pose choking dangers. While some pets will ignore them, others will investigate anything and everything within range. Toys, baskets, and tiny ornamental objects should be stored where Fido and Fluffy cannot reach them.
Avoid dangerous decorations.
Many traditional Easter decorations, such as plants, are harmful to pets.
Lilies, for example, are extremely toxic to cats and can result in severe kidney damage if consumed. In fact, Fluffy only needs to drink a small sip of water or bite on a leaf to consume potentially lethal levels of toxins.
Other dangerous plants include the following:
- Tulips
- Dieffenbachia
- Rhododendron
- Sago palm
- Daffodil
- Lily of the Valley
- Aloë
- Amaryllis
- Cyclamen
- Pothos
- Autumn crocus
- Hyacinth
- Ivy
- Yew
- Azalea
- Chrysanthemum
- Holly
- Marijuana
- Mistletoe
- Philodendron
- Foxglove
Do not underestimate your pet’s playful behavior. Make sure larger decorations are on strong stands, and keep wires and cords neatly stowed away.
Offer Suitable Snacks
Many pets get extra cute when they see a tasty feast being prepared. While it may be tempting to share your Easter supper, table leftovers and human food are not suitable for our canine companions.
Many typical Easter main meals, like ham and turkey, are rich in fat and sodium. These can cause stomach problems. Dogs and cats can develop pancreatitis after eating high-fat foods such as butter and cheese.
Many people’s foods are also dangerous. Some of the most harmful are alcohol, avocados, chocolate, coffee, caffeine, garlic, onions, chives, xylitol, macadamia nuts, citrus fruits, various dairy products, grapes and raisins, raw dough, and yeast.
If you want to give your pet a special treat, provide a piece of cooked lean meat or veggies instead of feeding them at the table.
Create A Safe And Quiet Space
Are you expecting guests for Easter dinner? Some pets prefer company and will appreciate the opportunity to seek extra pets and belly rubs. Others are afraid of company and noise. Any significant change in one’s daily routine might be upsetting. You may wish to offer your pet a quiet area where they may escape the noise or activity.
Choose a specific room and make it enjoyable and comfortable for your pet by including bedding and toys. You can also use background music or turn on pet TV. To keep Fido and Fluffy from feeling too secluded, consider using a baby gate at the door.
Even if your pet is nice, it’s better to keep them safe and out of the way.
Eggs
Are you planning an Easter egg hunt? Go around and make sure that all of the gorgeous colored eggs have been collected. Dogs frequently eat eggs they find, so you don’t want Fido eating one in a week from now.
Garbage
The waste from a large feast is usually dangerous. It could contain fat trimmings, toothpicks, plastic wrap, bones, tin foil, and other hazardous materials. If your dog is tall enough to reach into the garbage, use a trash can with a closed cover.
Parasites
As the weather warms, the chance of parasitic infestations increases. Fleas, ticks, and heartworms can all pose serious health risks. We normally recommend that pets be on parasite control all year round. Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance for pets; they represent major health hazards that can cause discomfort, disease, or even death. Heartworms are also very dangerous.
Consult your Cherry Hill, NJ veterinarian for further information about parasite control.
Book An Appointment At Our Cherry Hill, NJ Pet Clinic
Happy Easter! Do you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health and care? Are you looking for an excellent veterinarian in Cherry Hill, NJ? Please do not hesitate to contact us. We are dedicated to providing excellent care.
