This Easter, make sure your furry friend isn’t sniffing around for treats they can’t handle.
As Easter approaches this weekend, we are all eagerly anticipating the chocolate coma that awaits us come Monday.
While this can be a great time for us humans, indulging in hot cross buns and Easter eggs, the side effects that chocolate consumption can have on pets can potentially be fatal.
Some people may argue that they have previously given chocolate to their pet with no adverse effects. However, it is vital to note that like any other food or medicine, the reaction to the toxic component is dependent on the dosage and circumstances.
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.
Different types of chocolate will present different dangers, so please make sure that only the humans get the tasty treat this Easter.
Symptoms of chocolate ingestion can vary from animal to animal, but can include restlessness, hyperactivity, nervousness, trembling, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased drinking, muscle tremors, increased urination, seizures, increased heart rate and possibly death.
We know they can turn on the charm but don’t give in!
If your pet ingests chocolate, or any other toxic food like sultanas, we would urge you to consider contacting your local veterinarian for advice as soon as possible.
While cats aren’t usually as curious about chocolate as dogs, it is still important to keep chocolate away from both. Often during the holiday period, it is not uncommon for family visitors to be around. Keep an eye out especially for young children who will try to share their sweet treats with pets.
RSPCA ACT Veterinarian Sarah Pilbeam says that “pets are even less well equipped to deal with chocolate than we are! 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.”
Chocolate hasn’t been designed for pets, and pets weren’t designed for chocolate. This doesn’t mean that your pets have to miss out, make sure this Easter you give them treats that love them back!
All of us at RSPCA ACT would like to wish everyone a very happy and safe Easter, spent with family and pets these holidays.
Do you have any questions about animals that you’d like us to discuss? Let us know in the comments below or email us at rspca@rspca-act.org.au
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