4 Common Easter Dangers for Pets

Every holiday has its own bells and whistles when it comes to decorations and how we celebrate. For Easter, there are a lot of hidden dangers for your pets. Here are the most common dangers of Easter decorations:

1. Flowers

When consumed, some flowers can be harmful or even poisonous. Lilies, a traditional springtime flower, are especially poisonous to cats. The Pet Poison Helpline says within six to 12 hours, symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, and lethargy will occur if a cat ingests lilies. If you notice these signs or notice your pet licking the plant, please call your nearest pet hospital or vet to try and reverse the effects. Since there are no medications to treat this, it is important to get your pet treatment right away.

YourSPCA adds daffodils, hydrangeas, and ivy to the list of plants your pet should avoid. The Humane Society has compiled a list of even more plants your pets should stay away from.

2. Easter Grass

Those long strands of pastel-colored plastic we use as basket-fillers are very harmful if a pet decides to eat some. The ASPCA reminds us cats love to chew on grass, even if it is brightly colored, which causes digestive problems, severe vomiting, and dehydration. The type of damage Easter grass can do to your pet will require abdominal surgery.

3. Candy

Even though these sugary treats are delicious to us, they may be poisonous to your pets. Chocolate is the main concern. The Pet Poison Helpline advises the “darker and more bitter” the more dangerous the chocolate. Side effects of your dog eating chocolate may include “vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, an abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and possibly death.”

YourSPCA adds we should also keep all foil-wrapped candies away from pets. They are also not digestible and can lead to “choking, strangulation, and internal obstruction.”

4. Little Plastic Toys

It’s very common to put little plastic toys or bubbles into an Easter basket. Make sure to keep these small objects away from pets who love to chew. These items could become dislodged in a pet’s throat and can lead to choking.

As soon as you suspect your pet has gotten into a potentially harmful substance, please do not hesitate to call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at (888) 426-4435.

What do you do around the Easter holiday to make sure your pet is comfortable and safe?