Easter is a fun and exciting holiday for children; but for your pets, it can be filled with danger. The treats in your children’s Easter baskets and the decorations around your home can be hazardous to your pet’s health.
Some plants, especially Easter lilies, are highly toxic to pets and can be fatal if eaten. All parts of the Easter lily, day lily, and tiger lily are toxic to cats. Eating even a small part of the plant can lead to kidney failure, which if left untreated, can cause death. Other spring plants that are concerning include daffodils, hydrangeas, wisteria, and ivy. Ingestion of these plants can cause stomach pain, vomiting, dehydrations, and difficulty breathing.
Also harmful if eaten is the plastic grass used in Easter baskets. It can become twisted within a pet’s intestines and can require surgery to remove. Foil candy wrappers are tempting to pets, but can cause intestinal blockages. Keep these items out of your children’s Easter baskets or up out of the way of your pets to be safe.
Finally, candy can be harmful to pets, with chocolate possibly fatal to cats, dogs, and ferrets. Dark chocolate is worse for pets than milk chocolate. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener used in many candies and gum, can be toxic too. All candy in your family’s Easter basket should be kept out of the reach of your animal companions.
What are some ways to treat your pets this Easter? Give them their own Easter basket filled with healthy treats, a new leash, and some fun chew toys.
Article provided by Bluegreen Carpet & Tile Cleaning in Sun Prairie