Easter Eggs Could Be Deadly For Your Cat, Charity Warns

Friday, 15 April 2022 06:00

By Dominic Kureen @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.”

More from Lifestyle

Five Classic Talent Shows You Forgot About

Before The X Factor and The Voice, there were a number of talent shows that paved the way for more modern juggernauts, showcasing hidden gems and bringing unforgettable performances to our living rooms. Now that there's renewed interest into behind the scenes of many of these shows, here’s a nostalgic look at five you may have forgotten about, but are well worth remembering:
Five Festive Films To Start Getting You In The Mood

As the nights grow longer and the chill of winter sets in, there's no better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than by cosying up with a cup of hot cocoa and indulging in some festive films. Whether you're seeking heart-warming tales, whimsical adventures, or a touch of holiday humour, these five festive movies are perfect to spark that magical feeling of the season:
Five Most Delicious Pastries Worldwide

Pastries are a universal language of indulgence, with cultures around the world contributing their own unique takes on this delicious art form. From flaky, buttery layers to creamy, custard-filled delights, here’s a list of the five most delicious pastries that should be on every food lover's must-try list:
Five Of The Most Stunning Sunsets In The World

Sunsets captivate us with their breath-taking blend of colours, each unique to the place it graces. From vast deserts to bustling cities, sunset moments connect us with nature, offering both tranquillity and awe. Here’s five of the world’s most stunning locations to experience these natural wonders:
Five Amazing Disco Films to Brighten Your Day

Whether you love a good dance floor, fabulous fashion, or simply need a feel-good escape, these disco films are sure to brighten your day. Here are five amazing disco-inspired movies that will transport you to an era of shimmering lights, soulful grooves, and the ultimate celebration of fun: