🍫 From chocolate eggs to hot cross buns, Easter is a time of sweet treats for many. However, every Easter holiday period the Animal Poisons Helpline receives a significant increase in calls regarding pets eating chocolate and sultanas.
Chocolate contains methylxanthines which are dangerous to pets. Theobromine, the primary methylxanthine in chocolate, is toxic to companion animals. Following chocolate ingestion, signs of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, increased urination, hyperactivity, tremor, increased heart rate, changes to the heart rhythm and possibly seizures. The risk of poisoning is dependent on a number of factors including the type of chocolate ingested (dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain a much greater quantity of methylxanthines than milk chocolate), the amount ingested and the size of the animal.
Dogs are also known to be uniquely sensitive to grapes, raisins and sultanas. Dogs that ingest these fruits can potentially develop kidney injury, which can be life-threatening or result in lifelong kidney disease. Recent research suggests that an organic acid called tartaric acid (which is found in high concentrations in grapes) is likely responsible. Hot cross buns containing sultanas are a common Easter holiday hazard for dogs. Early signs of poisoning may include vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and lethargy. As the illness progresses, increased thirst and urination can occur which can be indicative of kidney injury.
To prevent accidental pet poisoning during the festive season, pet owners should be mindful to:
✅ Store chocolate and hot cross buns in areas that cannot be reached by pets.
✅ Keep dangerous flowers and plants away from pets (such as the Easter Lily, which is highly toxic to cats).
✅ Ensuring Easter decorations and small toys are safely secured.
✅ Provide your pets with safe, alternative treats or toys to join in on the fun.
The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on ☎️1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends. To stay up to date with the latest pet poison alerts and receive updates directly to your inbox, visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date and subscribe.
