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Easter Hazards for Pets

April 1, 2020
Easter is just around the corner. Although rabbits may have the spotlight for a few weeks, our other furry pals also need some attention. This can be a dangerous holiday for Fluffy and Fido! Read on as an Ashburn, VA vet lists some seasonal hazards for pets.

Bouquets

Those colorful bouquets can brighten up any home. However, many flowers are toxic to pets. Lilies, for instance, are extremely poisonous to cats. Tulips, gladiolas, chrysanthemums, daffodils, and several other popular flowers are also unsafe. You can check the ASPCA website here for a full list of safe and unsafe plants.

Chocolate

Those chocolate bunnies and eggs are a special treat, but they aren’t safe for pets. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which our furry pals cannot metabolize. Chocolate ingestion can cause some serious symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, elevated heart rate, tremors, and seizures. In fact, just one ounce of chocolate per pound of your pet’s body weight can be a fatal dose. The candy wrappers are also dangerous. Keep those sweets out of paw’s reach!

Food

Are you hosting a big Easter banquet? It’s fine to include your pet by giving them a special snack, but be careful what you offer. Never give your four-legged pal garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; pitted fruits, especially avocados; grapes, currants, and raisins; meat on the bone; caffeine; alcohol; dairy products; raw dough, meat, or yeast; or anything that contains xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Decorations

That plastic ‘grass’ you often find in Easter baskets is a huge choking hazard for pets. Many cats are quite attracted to it, for some reason. Keep those baskets in a safe place, where your pet can’t reach it. You’ll also want to be careful with things like plastic eggs and chicks, garlands, candles, and other decorations.

Heat

Although we’re a ways away from the worst of the summer heat, April can be hot. Make sure your furry pal has shade and fresh water at all times.

Eggs

Easter egg hunts are one of spring’s most popular traditions. If you host one, make sure that all the eggs have been gathered. Otherwise, your canine buddy may eat it. While hard-boiled eggs are generally safe, they spoil quickly, especially outdoors.

Happy Easter! Please contact us, your Ashburn, VA vet clinic, anytime. We’re dedicated to helping you keep your pet happy and healthy!