Will the Easter Bunny be making a stop at your house this weekend?

Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe amid baskets full of candy and springtime treats.

Does your furry friend want to dive into Easter treats like this guy? Learn which springtime goodies may be hazardous to your pet’s health. Image source: istock photo

Candy toxicity and other seasonal poisonings spike in veterinary hospitals around Easter.  Some items which are perfectly safe for human consumption are highly toxic for pets. Protect your pets by avoiding these 5 common spring time goodies and click on the links to get more in-depth information on each subject.

1.   Chocolate

In small amounts chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea but in large amounts it can be potentially fatal.  Avoid feeding this sweet treat to your pets and substitute a slice of apple instead.

2.    Xylitol

Xylitol is a common ingredient in sugar free gum and candy and is very poisonous to pets.  Even one or two sticks of xylitol-containing gum can cause liver damage, seizures or worse.

3.    Raisins

Both raisins and grapes can cause kidney failure in pets.  Offer your dog a baby carrot as a treat instead.

4.    Lilies

Although beautiful to have around the house during the spring season, keep cats and dogs away from this toxic plant.  Pick up some edible cat grass at the pet store to occupy a nosy kitty.

5.    Easter basket grass and plastic eggs

 Make sure your pets don’t raid the Easter basket when nobody is looking!  These synthetic materials can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even more serious intestinal obstructions.  Keep them far out of reach and give your pet a chew toy stuffed with food such as a Kong toy to keep their attention while you enjoy your Easter basket goodies. 

We wish all of our clients and patients a wonderful Easter weekend!
Image source: Ellen Zangla Photography