Halloween Safety for Exotic Pets
Halloween treats and decorations can pose safety risks for our pets, including exotic pets. Curious species prone to chewing are probably the most at risk, such as rabbits, ferrets, rats and other rodents. Make sure your Halloween celebrations don't put your exotic pets at risk!
Treats
Many exotic pets have a sweet tooth and can't resist digging into Halloween treats. Chocolate can be toxic, even a relatively small amount can be harmful to small exotic pets depending on the type of chocolate (bakers chocolate is the most concentrated and toxic form).
Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity and increased heart rate; a large enough dose can be fatal.
Other sweets can also make your exotic pet ill especially if eaten in large quantities. Candies and gums made with xylitol are especially worrisome, as they can cause a drop in blood sugar resulting in incoordination and seizures.
Wrappers
Do not leave plastic or foil wrappers from your treats in reach either. Your small pets (especially ferrets but others too) may be attracted to them and ingest them, which can lead to an intestinal blockage.
Pumpkins and Other Edible Decorations
Pumpkins and most other edible items used as decorations (gourds, corn, etc.) at this time of year are not usually toxic. However, since your exotic pet is probably not used to eating these items, they could cause a digestive upset and even severe diarrhea. Also, if they ingest large chunks of firm foods such as pumpkin, a blockage may result.
Other Decorations
Make sure your exotic pets cannot reach the wires leading to any decorations or lights.
Rabbits, ferrets, and rodents are especially prone to chewing on wires.
Candles are a risky decoration to use if you have curious pets around. Not only can your pet get burned if they investigate a burning candle, they could knock it over creating a fire risk. Remember to keep pets away from candles used in pumpkins too.
Rabbits, rodents and ferrets love to explore and chew on things. Make sure any other decorations you use are out of reach, and make sure they are non-toxic, just in case your pet finds a way to get at them. Be especially careful with decorations that could entangle a pet or be swallowed and cause problems (e.g. fake spider webs, tinsel decorations, stringy wigs, etc.). Remember, a curious pet can be very determined!
Trick-or-Treat Time
Keep your pets away from the door during trick-or-treat time. Your pet may be stressed by the unusual activity. If your pet is not confined he or she may bolt out the door amidst the activity. In addition cool drafts may result from the door being opened repeatedly.
Parties
If you host a Halloween party, it is probably best to keep your pets out of the way. They may be very stressed by new people, noises, and unusual activity. In addition, your pets may be tempted by party snacks and alcoholic drinks (which can be fatal to pets).
Related Reading
Treats
Many exotic pets have a sweet tooth and can't resist digging into Halloween treats. Chocolate can be toxic, even a relatively small amount can be harmful to small exotic pets depending on the type of chocolate (bakers chocolate is the most concentrated and toxic form).
Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity and increased heart rate; a large enough dose can be fatal.
Other sweets can also make your exotic pet ill especially if eaten in large quantities. Candies and gums made with xylitol are especially worrisome, as they can cause a drop in blood sugar resulting in incoordination and seizures.
Wrappers
Do not leave plastic or foil wrappers from your treats in reach either. Your small pets (especially ferrets but others too) may be attracted to them and ingest them, which can lead to an intestinal blockage.
Pumpkins and Other Edible Decorations
Pumpkins and most other edible items used as decorations (gourds, corn, etc.) at this time of year are not usually toxic. However, since your exotic pet is probably not used to eating these items, they could cause a digestive upset and even severe diarrhea. Also, if they ingest large chunks of firm foods such as pumpkin, a blockage may result.
Other Decorations
Make sure your exotic pets cannot reach the wires leading to any decorations or lights.
Rabbits, ferrets, and rodents are especially prone to chewing on wires.
Candles are a risky decoration to use if you have curious pets around. Not only can your pet get burned if they investigate a burning candle, they could knock it over creating a fire risk. Remember to keep pets away from candles used in pumpkins too.
Rabbits, rodents and ferrets love to explore and chew on things. Make sure any other decorations you use are out of reach, and make sure they are non-toxic, just in case your pet finds a way to get at them. Be especially careful with decorations that could entangle a pet or be swallowed and cause problems (e.g. fake spider webs, tinsel decorations, stringy wigs, etc.). Remember, a curious pet can be very determined!
Trick-or-Treat Time
Keep your pets away from the door during trick-or-treat time. Your pet may be stressed by the unusual activity. If your pet is not confined he or she may bolt out the door amidst the activity. In addition cool drafts may result from the door being opened repeatedly.
Parties
If you host a Halloween party, it is probably best to keep your pets out of the way. They may be very stressed by new people, noises, and unusual activity. In addition, your pets may be tempted by party snacks and alcoholic drinks (which can be fatal to pets).
Related Reading
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