Warm hot cross buns slathered in butter and hunting for chocolate eggs are great ways for us humans to pass the time this Easter long weekend, but not everyone in the family should indulge. The team at RSPCA ACT wants to remind pet owners of the dangers that these treats can have on the furriest members in the house.
“The side effects that chocolate consumption can have on pets can potentially be fatal,” says Michelle Robertson, CEO of RSPCA ACT.
Breaking into cupboards or rummaging through groceries, many dogs and cats have snuck their way into tasting chocolate once before, perhaps with no side effects. Ms Robertson explains even if this is the case, the reaction to chocolate, like any other food or medicine, depends on the dosage and circumstances related to its toxic components. Different types of chocolate present different dangers, so it is best to keep it away from pets altogether.
“For the health and safety of your pet, it is always best to completely restrict all access to chocolate and other unfriendly foods to make sure this holiday isn’t one to forget,” she says.
“It’s not just the active theobromine that is bad news for them. Animals just aren’t designed to digest high fat (and high sugar) meals and a large dose can be a really big strain on them, especially in their pancreas.”
The signs that your pet has ingested chocolate can vary from animal to animal. Some of the symptoms include restlessness, hyperactivity, nervousness, trembling, vomiting, diarrhea, increased drinking, muscle tremors, increased urination, seizures, increased heart rate and possibly death.
“If your pet ingests chocolate or any other toxic food like sultanas, we urge you to consider contacting your local veterinarian for advice as soon as possible,” says Ms Robertson.
There are five golden rules to enjoying the Easter break while keeping your pets safe, according to Ms Robertson.
- Do not feed your pet toxic foods and drinks including chocolate, caffeine and alcohol. Ensure that all children and guests are aware of this.
- Keep chocolate out of reach of furry friends and avoid hiding Easter eggs close to the ground if your cat or dog is on the prowl.
- Keep pets away from Easter lilies, especially cats. The flowers are highly poisonous and can cause severe kidney failure.
- Keep your pet away from Easter grass, the fake grass that is often found in easter baskets. When this fake grass is ingested, it can become anchored around the base of the tongue or stomach, often requiring expensive abdominal surgery.
- Easter ornaments, while not food, can be a potential hazard. Keep an eye on pets around Easter decorations, place the alluring décor in high places, safely out of reach.
All these rules don’t mean that pets have to miss out as there are plenty of tummy-friendly treats they can have. Ms Robertson suggests carrot sticks, de-seeded watermelons, green beans, cucumber, pumpkin and zucchini.
Giving pets treats that love them back will help make sure everyone has a safe and happy Easter period.
“All of us at RSPCA ACT would like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Easter, spent with family and pets these holidays,” smiles Ms Robertson.
For more information on caring for your pet visit; rspca-act.org.au
Canberra Daily is keen to hear from you about a story idea in the Canberra and surrounding region. Click here to submit a news tip.
