Safe Easter Foods and Treats Your Pets Will Love

Easter is a time of celebration, family, and delicious food. But while you’re indulging in chocolate eggs and festive feasts, it’s important to keep your furry friends safe from harmful foods and activities. In this blog, we’ll guide you through common Easter foods that are and aren’t safe for pets, share pet-friendly recipes for cats and dogs, and offer safety tips to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday.

Easter Foods – What’s Safe and What’s Not for Pets?

Common Easter Foods That Are Dangerous for Pets

• Chocolate: A beloved Easter treat for humans, but chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious health issues.
• Hot Cross Buns: A staple of Easter, these buns often contain raisins, sultanas, and currants—all of which are highly toxic to pets and can lead to kidney failure.
• Easter Lollies: Many lollies contain xylitol, a sweetener that’s safe for humans but can be fatal to pets.
• Fatty Meats and Bones: While it’s tempting to share leftover ham or lamb, fatty meats can cause pancreatitis, and bones can splinter and become choking hazards.
• Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks: Both are toxic to pets and can cause severe health issues.

Easter Leftovers to Avoid

• Dishes containing onions, garlic, or chives, such as stuffing or gravy.
• Salty snacks or heavily seasoned meats.
• Desserts made with artificial sweeteners, chocolate, or dairy.

Pet-Friendly Foods

• Cooked, unseasoned meats: Turkey, chicken, or lamb (with no added salt or spices) can be a tasty treat for your pet.
• Vegetables: Steamed carrots, green beans, or peas are great low-calorie snacks.
• Eggs: Plain, hard-boiled eggs are safe in moderation and a fun seasonal option.

Pet-Safe Easter Recipes for Cats and Dogs

Get your pets in on the Easter fun with these easy and delicious recipes!

Dog-Friendly Treats

Peanut Butter Bunny Biscuits

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups whole wheat flour
2. 1/2 cup peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
3. 1 egg
4. 1/4 cup water (add more if needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, peanut butter, and egg.
3. Gradually add water until the dough is firm but pliable.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use bunny-shaped cookie cutters to cut out treats.
5. Place on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Cool completely before serving.

Carrot and Oat Bites

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup rolled oats
2. 1/2 cup grated carrot
3. 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
3. Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
4. Place on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes.
5. Let cool before giving to your pup.

Cat-Friendly Treats

Tuna Easter Eggs

Ingredients:

1. 1 can tuna in water (drained)
2. 2 tablespoons cooked pumpkin (remove skin and seeds thoroughly)
3. Optional: a pinch of catnip

Instructions:

1. Blend the tuna and pumpkin into a smooth paste.
2. Add catnip if desired.
3. Shape the mixture into small egg shapes and place on a plate.
4. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.

Chicken Broth Cubes

Ingredients:

1. Unsalted chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Pour the broth into Easter-themed silicone molds.
2. Freeze until solid.
3. Pop out and serve as a cool treat.

Sweet Potato Chews (for cats and dogs!)

Ingredients:

1. 1 large sweet potato

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F).
2. Slice the sweet potato thinly into strips.
3. Arrange on a baking tray and bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through.
4. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Safety Tips

• Keep pets away from unattended food and trash.
• Designate a quiet space where they can retreat if overwhelmed.
• Avoid using ribbons, plastic grass, or small decorations that could be ingested.
• Look out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or unusual behaviour, and contact your vet immediately if you’re concerned.

Organise a DIY Easter Egg Hunt for Your Pets!

Create a special Easter egg hunt just for your furry friends! Here’s how you can set up this family-friendly activity:

1. Choose Pet-Safe Treats

• Use the homemade treats from Section 2 or store-bought pet-safe snacks.
• Avoid using any human foods that could be harmful.

2. Select Safe Hiding Spots

• For dogs: Hide treats in your yard or around the house in easy-to-reach spots. Ensure there are no hazards like toxic plants or small objects they could swallow.
• For cats: Place treats in more challenging locations, like on cat trees or behind furniture, to engage their hunting instincts.

3. Use Pet-Safe Containers

• Use large, pet safe containers, avoiding small plastic items that can be destroyed or pose choking hazards. Ensure there are no sharp edges or parts they could chew off.

4. Encourage Participation

• Show your pets the first treat to pique their interest, then let them sniff out the rest.
• Offer plenty of praise and encouragement to make it a fun bonding experience.

Hop Into a Safe and Fun Easter for Your Pets

Easter is a joyful time, and with a little preparation, you can make it safe and fun for your pets too. By avoiding harmful foods, treating them to homemade goodies, and following our safety tips, your furry friends can join in the celebrations. And if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, leave your pets with us at Pet Resorts Australia.

• Safe and secure accommodations.
• Personalised care and attention.
• Plenty of playtime and enrichment activities.

Book your pet’s stay with us today and enjoy the holiday knowing they’re in loving hands.