Check out our latest magazine... Read Online

Easter Eggs Could Be Deadly For Your Cat, Charity Warns

Friday, 15 April 2022 06:00

By Dominic Kureen X @WriteOnDom

Easter eggs could be deadly to a cat and chocolate should be kept out of reach of pets, senior vets have warned.

Just two grams of chocolate — about the size of a small chunk or a few chocolate buttons - could be toxic to our feline friends, Cats Protection’s Central Veterinary Officer Sarah Elliott cautioned.

She said:

“Eating even a small amount of chocolate could raise a cat’s heart rate and increase loss of bodily fluids, both of which could be fatal.

“Caffeine in chocolate can affect the central nervous system and cause muscle twitching, but the main danger is theobromine."

Signs of poisoning can be seen within 30 minutes to two hours after ingesting the chocolate and can include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive urination, irregular heartbeat and seizures.

Cat owners shouldn’t confuse curiosity in their own treat as a cat’s craving for chocolate.

Unlike dogs, a cat’s tongue cannot detect sweetness from sugar and it is more likely the cat is just curious or attracted to the fat content of food made for humans.

Chocolate is just one food that poses a risk to cats. Coffee, nuts, grapes, garlic and coconut water can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea or dehydration. Even milk and cheese can bring on sickness and digestive problems as many cats are lactose intolerant.

Kerri Graffham, Manager at Cats Protection’s Mitcham Homing Centre, said:

“We are here to provide support on many matters related to better cat welfare and people sometimes ask if it’s ok to feed a cat food meant for people or to say their cat has eaten something they shouldn’t.

“It can be anything, from plants such as lilies that are toxic to cats to chocolate or even plastic.

"But our advice is always the same; if you suspect that your cat has eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your vet immediately. If you wait, it could be too late.”

Share

More from Lifestyle

  • Five Random Islands You Can Visit

    When most people think of island getaways, famous destinations like Hawaii, the Maldives, or the Greek Islands come to mind. But beyond the usual tropical hotspots, there are countless lesser-known islands waiting to be discovered. These hidden gems offer unique landscapes, fascinating cultures, and unforgettable experiences, all with a fraction of the tourist crowds. Whether you're looking for serenity, adventure, or something completely out of the ordinary, here are five random islands you can visit that promise an escape unlike any other:

  • Five Of The Highest UK Villages To Visit

    The UK is home to some of the most picturesque villages, nestled in valleys or perched on hilltops. But for those seeking altitude along with beauty, a few stand out for their impressive elevation. These high-altitude villages offer breath-taking views, fresh air, and a sense of serenity:

  • Five Old-School Desserts From Our Childhood

    While today's dessert trends lean toward gourmet creations and intricate flavours, there’s something undeniably special about the old-school desserts from our childhood. These humble, comforting delights remind us of a simpler time when sugary happiness was just a spoonful away. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit five beloved desserts from the past:

  • Five Incredible Acoustic Gigs That Transcended Time

    Over the years, there have been several acoustic performances that have stood out for their beauty, emotion, and impact. Here are five incredible acoustic gigs that have left a lasting mark on music history:

  • Five Delicious Chicken Wing Recipes Worldwide

    Chicken wings are a beloved snack and meal enjoyed across the globe, each culture bringing its unique twist to this finger-licking favourite. Whether they're fried, grilled, baked, or smoked, chicken wings can be a canvas for a variety of flavours—from sweet to spicy, tangy to savoury. Here are five incredible chicken wing recipes from around the world that are sure to excite your taste buds:

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club or enter your details below.

Get Social

© Beacon Magazine Isle of Wight and Aiir 2024 | 8-10 Dodnor Park, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5XE