Chocolate and hot cross buns must be hidden from cats and dogs this Easter long weekend because the treats can be poisonous to furry friends, pet owners are warned.
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) Victoria issued a warning on April 7 to remind pet owners to keep the sweet treats, which can be highly toxic to cats and dogs, out of reach from the animals.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which if ingested by pets can be highly dangerous, RSPCA Victoria chief veterinarian Bronwyn Oke said.
“Human chocolate is not meant for animals. This Easter, please make sure you keep all chocolate away from dogs, cats, and any other pets you own,” Oke said.
“The overall effect of chocolate ingestion on the dog depends on the size of the dog, the amount of chocolate ingested, and the type of chocolate eaten.”
Symptoms of chocolate ingestion can include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, excitement, nervousness and increased heart rate, and if left untreated could lead to death.
Oke said grapes, sultanas and raisins, which are found in hot cross buns, were also highly toxic for dogs as they could cause kidney failure.
Oke urged pet owners to seek veterinary attention quickly if they feared their animal may have eaten an Easter treat.
“If your pet has ingested even a small amount of something they shouldn’t have, do not take a ‘wait and see’ approach,” Oke said.
“When your pet starts showing symptoms after eating a sweet treat, it’s potentially already in a life-threatening situation. It is much better to call or visit your local vet as soon as possible for advice.”
