Easter might be all about bunnies – but what about our beloved cats and dogs?

With family adventures, sweet treats and changes to routine in full swing at this time of year, here are some tips for keeping your furry friends safe throughout the holidays.

Be egg-stra careful with chocolate

Easter is synonymous with chocolate eggs, but it’s important that all treats are stored well out of the way of dogs and cats, as chocolate can be highly toxic for them (read our piece on Valentine’s Day: Why Chocolate and Pets Don’t Mix to discover why). 

A quick recap: chocolate contains a compound called theobromine that dogs and cats can’t process quickly, which means it can build up to dangerous levels in their systems. 

The darker and more concentrated the chocolate, the more toxic it is. Chocolate toxicity symptoms include vomiting or diarrhoea; restlessness or hyperactivity; increased heart rate; tremors or muscle twitching; panting; and, in severe cases, seizures or collapse. 

And at Easter, there’s also the issue of colourful foil wrapping, ribbons, bells and other decorative elements which can cause intestinal blockages if consumed. 

Another popular seasonal treat, hot cross buns, can be just as dangerous, as raisins, sultanas and currants are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure even in small amounts. 

At My Family Vet, we often see a spike in chocolate toxicity cases around Easter. We recommend storing all sweet treats well away from where inquisitive noses can find them, keeping pets inside during egg hunts, and making sure you do a thorough check of your yard after the fun is over. Happy hunting!

Travel safely with your pet

Dogs (and some cats!) love holidays too, and there’s no better feeling than heading off on an adventure with your pet.

Always make sure your pet is restrained appropriately (carriers for cats, and crates, harnesses or seatbelt attachments for dogs) when it comes to car journeys to ensure the safety of everyone in the vehicle.

Once you reach your new destination, do a quick safety check. Could my cat escape from these windows? Are there any toxic plants around? Are there other animals nearby? Should my dog be on lead at all times? 

Whether you’re camping, staying with friends or spending time at a holiday house, a quick scout around to look for potential hazards will ensure it’s a memorable holiday for all the right reasons. 

Please get in touch if you’re worried about your pet over the break.

From the My Family Vet team, we wish you and your furry friends a safe and happy Easter!