There are many products that are safe for humans to use or consume, but can be deadly to household pets. They can be found both inside and outside the home, so you must be knowledgeable about products use throughout your home and property.

Easter and Your Pets

Holidays are times that pet owners must be exceptionally vigilant, because potential hazards may be present that aren't normally found in the home. These include:

• Chocolate

Although chocolate may be found in the home on a regular basis, Easter is a time when an inordinate amount of chocolate may be accessible to pets. Theobromine and caffeine, which are both present in chocolate, may be toxic to pets at sufficient levels. Dogs are more susceptible to the lure of chocolate than cats, but both may be affected.

Generally, dark chocolate has greater levels of toxic substances than milk or white chocolate, but none is safe for pets.

• Easter grass

Another component of Easter baskets, it is often irresistible to pets, but can cause intestinal blockages if consumed. Any kind of long stringy materials, such as string or yarn, will have the same effect on pets, who will swallow them whole, but cannot digest them.

• Yeast dough

Yeast dough for bread or rolls can be hazardous to pets because if they are eaten while rising (or thawing if previously frozen), they may continue to expand inside pets' intestines. Yeast also causes fermentation in sugars, which may lead to alcohol poisoning in pets.

• Healthier alternative treats for children

If you are thinking of providing some healthier treats in your child's Easter basket, know that items such as raisins, grapes, and macadamia nuts are poisonous to pets.

• Xylitol

An artificial sweetener found in sugarless gum and candy, and also available in powder form,as a sugar substitute for baking, can be toxic in sufficient quantities.

• Lilies

Easter lilies are a popular gift or decoration for the home at Easter, but they can be deadly to cats. Every part of a lily, including the stems, flowers, and even the pollen, are toxic to cats. All varieties of lilies are equally toxic to cats. Daffodils and chrysanthemums are also popular spring flowers, but are also both toxic to pets, so don't use them as substitutes.

It is important to keep pets away from Easter baskets that are placed for children to find on Easter morning, and to speak to children about the dangers posed to pets who are given treats from the baskets. Creating a small Easter basket of pet treats may be a safe and practical alternative. For more information on pet safety during holidays, talk to a local vet, like those at All-Pets Hospital.