With Easter around the corner, Pet Insurance Australia is urging pet parents to be aware of hidden seasonal dangers that could lead to unexpected and costly vet visits.
From chocolate eggs to decorative objects, the holiday cheer can quickly turn into an emergency — especially for curious cats and snack-loving dogs.
“Easter is a wonderful time for families, but it’s also one of the busiest times for emergency vet visits,” says Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia’s Spokesperson. “Our pets are part of the celebration, but it’s vital we make sure they’re safe.”
Common Easter hazards: know the risks
According to the PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2024, chocolate toxicity remains a major cause of Easter-related vet visits, with claims spiking during the April holiday period.
“Dogs, in particular, are at high risk due to their keen noses and willingness to gobble up anything.”
Other top Easter hazards include:
“Easter is a wonderful time for families, but it’s also one of the busiest times for emergency vet visits,” says Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia’s Spokesperson. “Our pets are part of the celebration, but it’s vital we make sure they’re safe.”
Common Easter hazards: know the risks
According to the PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2024, chocolate toxicity remains a major cause of Easter-related vet visits, with claims spiking during the April holiday period.
“Dogs, in particular, are at high risk due to their keen noses and willingness to gobble up anything.”
Other top Easter hazards include:
❌ Hot cross buns – often contain raisins, which are toxic to dogs
❌ Easter lilies – deadly to cats even in small amounts
❌ Plastic Easter grass and foil wrappers – can cause intestinal blockages if ingested
❌ Cooked bones from Easter roasts – can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries
Watch for these symptoms:
If your pet has accidentally gotten into something dangerous, look out for these signs:
✔️ Vomiting or diarrhoea
✔️ Excessive drooling
✔️ Tremors or seizures
✔️ Lethargy or weakness
✔️Loss of appetite
✔️ Difficulty breathing or changes in behaviour
“Don’t wait. If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten something harmful, contact your vet immediately,” says Crighton. “Quick action can save their life.”
Easter fun without the risk
✔️ Excessive drooling
✔️ Tremors or seizures
✔️ Lethargy or weakness
✔️Loss of appetite
✔️ Difficulty breathing or changes in behaviour
“Don’t wait. If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten something harmful, contact your vet immediately,” says Crighton. “Quick action can save their life.”
Easter fun without the risk