Keep Your Pets Safe This Easter:

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:

• 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

Want to include your furry family members in the festivities without putting them in harm's way? Pet Insurance Australia has some creative, safe alternatives for an unforgettable Easter:

• Pet-Safe Easter Egg Hunt: Hide small treats or puzzle toys filled with your pet's favourite healthy snacks in the backyard or around the house.
• DIY Easter Toys: Fill a cardboard egg carton with bits of kibble or catnip for your feline to bat around.
• Bunny Ears Photo Booth: Create a fun Easter-themed corner with pet-friendly props for a cute family photo shoot.
• Frozen Treats: Make pet-safe frozen Easter eggs using silicone moulds and ingredients like natural yoghurt, peanut butter (xylitol-free), and mashed banana.

"Being proactive and creative allows your pets to feel included without the risk," Crighton adds. "It's all about celebrating safely and creating happy memories for the whole family—four-legged members included."

Unexpected vet visits can add financial strain to the holiday season. With many clinics operating on public holiday hours, emergency care costs can also skyrocket.

"In 2023, the average claim for toxicity and foreign body ingestion in our canine companions was over $1,000*, and some cases that required surgery exceeding $40,000*," says Crighton. "Being proactive when it comes to the safety of your pet around festive times can keep your pet safe and healthy while also protecting your hip pocket."

Our feline friends are no different, as cats are naturally attracted to the smell and texture of chocolate, but it contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic.

"Ingesting chocolate can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures or death," Crighton warns. "Treatment for chocolate ingestion in cats can be costly, with an average treatment cost of $598* and the highest treatment claim reaching $1,565*.

About Pet Insurance Australia
Pet Insurance Australia is one of the nation's leading pet insurance brands, committed to supporting pet parents with fast, reliable, and compassionate cover for cats and dogs. Through innovation and partnerships, PIA helps pets live happier, healthier lives.

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*Source: PetSure Pet Health Monitor 2024

Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure's Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure's AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.