Keeping your cat safe this Easter

It has been a very busy start to the year for us at Perth Cat Hospital and I cannot deny that all our team are grateful for the Easter break so that we can stop for a quick breather! If my 12 year old Burmese Rollie could have his own way he would like this year’s Easter to involve us spending the entire time on the couch so he can lay on my cosy lap. He is very partial to lazing the entire day away. 😉

While Easter for us humans is generally a weekend of cherished family time and feasting on chocolate, there are a few potential hazards for cats that we need to be aware of. To help keep your precious felines safe this weekend, we have put together a few Easter safety tips.

1. Easter Lilies

Easter lilies are HIGHLY TOXIC. In fact all species of the Lilium plants (true lily) and Hemerocallis (day lily) are poisonous to cats. Ingestion of even the smallest amount of plant, leaf, pollen or flower can lead to acute kidney failure and sadly it can often be fatal. It is very important that you ensure to avoid letting your cat have any access to these plants and flowers.

2. Chocolate

If you are anything like me, Easter is a time to eat your body weight in chocolate but make sure that your kitty doesn’t get any. While most cats do not show an interest in sweet foods, there are some that will still have a nibble especially if they are one of those kitties that tends to be on the greedy side. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid heart rate tremors and seizures.

3. Gift wrapping ties and children’s small Easter toys

Many cats are not interested in chocolate and are often much more excited about the gift wrapping and ties. Ribbons, bows, streamers, and other decorative items are all subject to being chewed or played with and subsequently eaten. Once ingested, these objects can become stuck in your cat’s stomach or intestines. Abdominal surgery may then be required to remove them. If you suspect your cat has eaten something foreign, we recommend that they are seen by a vet immediately. It is best to get them assessed before they start showing any symptoms as this gives them a much better chance at a quick recovery.

4. Motor vehicles

Easter can be a dangerous time on the road for all of us, and so the safest approach is to keep your kitty safe and sound enclosed indoors where they cannot run out in front of a speeding car.

Lastly we would like to wish all of our new found feline friends and their humans a very happy Easter. See you soon!

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