Sunday, April 20 is a day that many children look forward to, because chocolate delights them. But our pets need to keep some distance and be distracted in other ways.

Easter and pets: The risks of chocolate

Santiago, April 2025 - The search for chocolate eggs hidden in flowerpots and plants is one of the most anticipated activities for the family, and many times this enthusiasm makes us, by mistake, include pets, without knowing that it is a forbidden food for them, due to its high toxicity. "In particular, chocolate contains methylxanthine theobromine, an alkaloid that stimulates the nervous system and has a toxic effect, both for dogs and cats. It can produce tachycardia and convulsions, among other consequences," explains Axel Haleby, Veterinarian and General Manager of Inaba Chile. Thus, a food that causes us humans pleasure, does not produce the same effect in dogs and cats, since our pets do not have the necessary enzymes to digest chocolate. "In the case of dogs, smell is fundamental, and in cats the flavors and other more complex properties of food are what give them pleasure when they eat. For this reason, the recommendation is to integrate them into the routine, but with healthy snacks that allow them to enjoy the activity as much as we do," adds the Inaba expert. In that sense, a good alternative for our pets to enjoy the search for prizes at Easter, can be the healthy snacks Churu, prepared with human grade ingredients that delight dogs and cats while taking care of their health. For canines, the perfect solution may be a triangle of Churu Fun Bites hiding the treats among plants or somewhere the dog often explores. Since it is an extremely healthy, moisturizing snack prepared with 100% natural ingredients, a dog can enjoy up to 3 triangles every day. Regarding felines, the smallest ones love to explore and a highly recommended option is Churu Kitten, which in tuna or chicken flavors and with a creamy texture, provides taurine, calcium and Omega 3 and 6, being the perfect complement to their nutrition. Searching for Easter eggs can be a great experience if we integrate our pets, but with fun suitable for them.

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