Easter, like most holidays, is a busy time in most households. Chocolate is a common theme, as it is during other festive times of the year, but Easter and springtime have a few special toxicities all their own.

Here are the top four toxins at Easter time:

Chocolate

Fortunately, like Halloween candy, Easter chocolates tend to have non-chocolate fillings versus solid chocolate. Nevertheless, animals who’ve ingested Easter chocolate should be monitored for pancreatitis.

Also, don’t forget to check if the chocolate contains raisins, macadamia nuts, alcohol, and/or xylitol. 

Easter Grass

Although the decorative grass that lines baskets is generally not a concern for toxicity, it can cause a linear foreign body obstruction.

Warning your clients to choose wisely ahead of time may create some goodwill and prevent grief later on.

Plants

Easter is the kickoff of spring planting season and there are many troublesome plants out there, but bulbs and lilies tend to predominate on this holiday.  

Unfortunately may cat owners still are not aware of the danger lilies pose. 

Fertilizers & Herbicides

Warmer weather brings out gardeners, and Easter weekend for many parts of the country is warm enough that people head outside to get that first application of fertilizer on the grass. In southern parts of the country they may be heading outside with weed killers. Make sure your products are safe for pets or keep your furry friends indoors until the product has dried.