Easter celebrations can bring hidden dangers for pets. Keep them safe with these precautions:
Chocolate & Candy – Chocolate, especially dark and baking chocolate, is toxic to pets. Xylitol, a sugar substitute in some candies and gum, is also highly dangerous. Keep all treats out of reach.
Easter Lilies & Other Plants – Lilies are extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Other spring flowers, like daffodils and tulips, can also be harmful. Keep all plants out of reach and opt for pet-safe alternatives.
Plastic Easter Grass & Small Decorations – Cats and dogs may be tempted to chew on plastic Easter grass, ribbons, or small decorations, which can cause serious intestinal blockages. Use paper grass or fabric alternatives.
Egg Hunts & Leftovers – If hosting an Easter egg hunt, be sure all eggs (plastic or real) are accounted for. Forgotten eggs can spoil, and plastic eggs or their contents can be a choking hazard.
Table Scraps & Rich Foods – Fatty or rich foods, such as ham, can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis in pets. Stick to pet-safe treats and remind guests not to share their meals.
Guests & Open Doors – With visitors coming and going, make sure pets don’t slip out unnoticed. Consider providing a quiet, safe space away from the activity if your pet gets overwhelmed.
Choosing an Easter Bunny – Rabbits, chicks, and ducklings require special care and aren’t holiday novelties. If you’re considering a new pet, make sure it’s a well-planned, lifelong commitment.
For many households, preparing for Passover means removing chametz (leavened grains) from the home. While pets aren’t required to “keep kosher,” some owners choose chametz-free pet food to help maintain a chametz-free home during the holiday. If you’re planning to switch your pet’s food, keep in mind that sudden changes can upset their stomach. A gradual transition is best, and we’ve put together a simple step-by-step guide to help. If your pet experiences digestive issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, slow the transition even further. And once the holiday ends, don’t forget to ease them back onto their regular food just as gradually.
H5N1, a type A influenza virus, is spreading among birds and some mammals in the U.S. Here’s how you can help protect your pets:
While you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart, keep your furry loved ones safe by watching out for these holiday hazards! If you think your pet has ingested something toxic, go to the veterinary ER or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 (fee applies) or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 (fee applies).
Hanukkah is a wonderful time to celebrate with family, friends, and animal companions, but with eight nights of festivities, it’s important to take precautions to keep pets safe.
Keep menorahs and all lit candles out of reach to prevent burns or accidents—LED candles are a safe alternative.
Watch out for gelt (chocolate coins) — chocolate is toxic to pets, and the foil wrappers can cause choking or obstructions.
Fried latkes might be delicious for us, but they’re high in fat and often contain onion, which is toxic to pets.
Spinning dreidels may look like pet toys, but they pose a serious choking hazard if swallowed. For pet-safe options, check out AMC’s holiday gift guide.
