Keep Easter sweet and safe for your pets

Companion Animals New Zealand shares essential advice for a happy holiday with your furry family members

Easter brings chocolate eggs, festive treats, and family gatherings, but some holiday traditions can pose serious risks to our four-legged companions. At Companion Animals New Zealand, we believe every animal deserves a Good Life – one that's not just free from harm but filled with joy, especially during holiday celebrations.

Easter hazards to avoid

Chocolate alert
Chocolate contains theobromine, a toxic compound that can be fatal to dogs. Dark chocolate is most dangerous due to higher theobromine levels, but all varieties pose risks. Warning signs include muscle stiffness, tremors, vomiting or seizures – requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Sweet dangers
Many candies, chewing gum, and even some peanut butter brands contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener extremely harmful to dogs even in tiny amounts. If you notice vomiting, lethargy, coordination problems or seizures after possible ingestion, contact your vet right away.

Packaging problems
Shiny foil wrappers and plastic eggs might attract curious pets but can cause dangerous digestive blockages potentially requiring surgery. Watch for warning signs including persistent vomiting, bloating, constipation, sudden weight loss, lethargy and dehydration.

Hot cross hazards
Those delicious hot cross buns contain raisins and dried fruits that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Keep these Easter treats well away from your curious pets.

Positive easter activities for pets

The Easter break is when you can spend quality time with your pets, and it doesn't have to be all about restrictions. There are some great ways to include your pets in the holiday fun:

Pet-friendly easter hunt
Hide pet-safe treats or toys around your garden for a special Easter hunt your dog will love. Use treats specially made for pets or small toys that stimulate their minds.

Time for walks
The Easter break is a perfect time for longer walks with your dog when the weather is still relatively mild. Get out and explore a new walk or beach together to celebrate the season – check out your local council websites for more information about where you can go that’s dog-friendly!

DIY pet toys
Create Easter-themed toys using pet-safe materials. A simple sock with a tennis ball inside makes a great "Easter egg" toy for dogs to chase – and for cats, there are lots of options – like paper balls, homemade cat treat-filled puzzle boxes and more!

At Companion Animals New Zealand, we believe that ensuring a Good Life for Animals means both protecting them from harm and creating opportunities for joy. This Easter, show your pets how much they mean to you with safe celebrations that include the whole family – furry members included!

For more pet safety tips and information on giving animals A Good Life, visit companionanimals.nz

National Pet Day 2025: Companion Animals NZ calls for a stronger commitment to pet welfare

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is calling on pet lovers across the country to take a stand for animal welfare this National Pet Day, Friday 11 April 2025 and the weeks following. With companion animals playing an essential role in the lives of many New Zealanders, CANZ is launching a nationwide pledge campaign to ensure pet welfare remains a priority in political and public discourse. 

As a national charity for companion animals, CANZ will use this campaign to raise awareness, encourage responsible pet ownership, and urge policymakers to address critical issues affecting pets and their guardians. The pledge invites individuals to show their commitment to animal welfare and support CANZ’s advocacy for policies that ensure pets receive the care, protection, and positive experiences they deserve. 

A commitment to Companion Animal Welfare 

The pledge focuses on key areas essential to ensuring a 'Good Life' for pets in Aotearoa, including calling on the Government to look at: 

• National frameworks: Develop and maintain world-leading companion animal policies, codes of welfare and regulations that position New Zealand as a recognised global leader in companion animal welfare 

• Pets in rentals: Implement rental housing protections for pet owners, recognising the importance of the pet-human bond  

• Pets in emergencies: Ensure well-resourced emergency management plans include provisions to evacuate, rescue, shelter and reunite companion animals

• Microchipping mandates: Implement and enforce comprehensive microchipping requirements for all companion animals supported by accessible national databases 

• Shelter support: Establish a NZ Animal Shelter database for local animal shelters and rescue organisations to provide accurate unowned pet population information 

• Desexing access: Establish free or low-cost spay/neuter programmes to help reduce the unowned pet population.  

“Pets are vital members of our communities, and we need to ensure their needs are considered in national and local policies,” says Prof. Nat Waran, Director of ‘A Good Life for Animals’ Centre at CANZ. “We know 63% of New Zealand homes have a pet and there is so much more we can do to improve their welfare through national oversight while also making pet ownership more accessible and supported. Clear policies and better resources can help ensure pets receive the care they deserve while allowing more people to experience the benefits of responsible pet ownership. By signing this pledge, New Zealanders can send a powerful message to decision-makers that companion animal welfare must remain on the agenda.” 

In addition to the pledge, CANZ will submit a letter to the Government outlining the key priorities for pet welfare, along with the total number of digital signatures collected. This initiative builds on CANZ’s longstanding commitment to research, education, and advocacy, as well as its operation of the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country’s leading microchip database. 

“We encourage every pet guardian and advocate to take action by signing the pledge,” adds Professor Waran. “Together, we can drive meaningful change and ensure a better future for all companion animals in New Zealand.” 

For more information and to sign the pledge, visit: National Pet Day Pledge — Companion Animals New Zealand  

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Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use research, education and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.4 million pets registered. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, New Zealand. Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).    

Let sleeping pets lie: Why a good sleep matters

Sleep is just as important for our animal companions as it is for us. While most pet owners focus on diet, exercise, and regular vet check-ups, sleep often gets overlooked as a crucial aspect of animal welfare. Understanding your pet's sleep needs is essential for providing them with the best care possible. 

How different pets sleep: Species-specific patterns

Dogs: The polyphasic nappers

Dogs are "polyphasic sleepers" – they take multiple naps throughout the day rather than one long sleep. Most dogs need about 12-14 hours of sleep daily, though this varies with age, breed, and activity level. Puppies and senior dogs typically require more rest. 

A dog's activity levels, routine changes, social interactions, and emotional experiences all affect sleep quality. Unlike humans who spend about 25% of sleep in REM (dream) sleep, dogs only spend about 10% in this restorative phase, making quality sleep time crucial for their wellbeing.

Cats: The professional sleepers

If you've ever envied your cat's ability to nap anywhere, anytime, there's good reason! Cats sleep between 12-16 hours daily, with some sleeping up to 20 hours. They're most active at dawn and dusk, explaining those early morning wake-up calls. 

Cats need safe, comfortable sleeping spots – preferably with options at different heights, as many cats feel more secure when elevated. Multiple sleeping locations throughout your home will help your feline friend get the rest they need. 

Horses: Standing sleepers

Horses have fascinating sleep patterns reflecting their evolution as prey animals. They need only 5-7 hours of rest consisting of 2-3 hours of total sleep daily and can sleep standing up thanks to a special "stay apparatus" in their legs. 

However, horses must lie down to achieve REM (deep) sleep, which typically only accounts for about 30 minutes of their daily rest. Without this crucial REM sleep, horses can develop serious welfare issues, including sudden episodes of collapse. Sleep deprivation risks increase when horses travel long distances or stay overnight at events without proper rest opportunities.

Rabbits: Eyes-open snoozers

As prey animals, rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they're most active during dawn and dusk, typically sleeping during midday and deep night. Unlike most pets, rabbits can sleep with their eyes open – an evolutionary adaptation that helps them stay alert to danger. They'll only close their eyes when feeling completely safe. 

Rabbits sleep 6-8 hours daily in many short naps rather than one continuous period. They also enter a "dozing" state where they rest while remaining somewhat alert. During true sleep, a rabbit's nose stops twitching – a rare sight indicating deep relaxation. 

Why quality of sleep matters for pet health

Good sleep isn't just about preventing grumpiness – it's essential for: 

• Physical health: Sleep is when the body repairs itself and grows 

• Immune function: Well-rested pets can fight illness better 

• Brain health: Sleep helps animals process new information and skills 

• Emotional wellbeing: Sleep-deprived pets tend to be more anxious or irritable 

• Pain management: Poor sleep can increase sensitivity to pain 

• Safety: Sleep deprivation can lead to problematic behaviours that can be unsafe for humans and other animals

Warning signs: Is your pet sleeping poorly?

Dogs and cats: 

• Increased irritability or unusual aggression 

• Seeming disoriented or confused 

• Excessive daytime sleepiness 

• Increased vocalisation at night 

• Changes in appetite 

Horses: 

• Dropping to their knees momentarily 

• Unexplained injuries that might have occurred during collapse 

• Excessive daytime drowsiness 

• Reluctance to lie down 

Rabbits: 

• Decreased activity or lethargy 

• Teeth grinding (different from gentle purring) 

• Hunched posture 

• Changes in eating habits 

• Reduced grooming behavior 

• Increased hiding behavior 

Creating sleep-friendly environments for your pets

Dogs 

• Provide a quiet, comfortable bed away from household traffic 

• Maintain a consistent daily routine 

• Ensure adequate daytime exercise  

• Consider crate training if it helps your dog feel secure 

• Keep their sleeping area at an appropriate temperature 

Cats 

• Offer multiple sleeping spots, including some elevated options 

• Provide both hidden/enclosed beds and open sleeping areas 

• Keep their sleeping areas away from litter boxes 

• Consider your cat's preference for soft vs. firm sleeping surfaces 

• Respect your cat's natural activity patterns rather than trying to force them into human schedules 

Horses 

• If stabled, ensure there is enough space to allow the horse to lie down safely and provide comfortable bedding or mats that encourage lying down 

• Maintain stable social groups when possible 

• Consider 24-hour turnout if suitable for your horse 

• Schedule human activities to avoid disrupting rest periods 

• Monitor for signs of sleep deprivation regularly 

Rabbits 

• Provide a quiet, draft-free sleeping area 

• Include hiding spaces like tunnels or covered areas where they can feel secure 

• Use soft bedding that supports their delicate feet (avoid wire-bottom cages) 

• Respect their crepuscular nature by avoiding disturbances during their main sleep periods 

• Ensure they have a companion if possible, as rabbits are social animals that feel safer with a buddy 

• Keep sleeping areas clean, as rabbits are naturally tidy animals

When to seek veterinary help 

If you notice persistent changes in your pet's sleep patterns or any warning signs mentioned above, consult your veterinarian. Sleep problems can indicate underlying health issues like arthritis, respiratory problems, or anxiety that require treatment.

The Companion Animals approach to quality pet sleep

Sleep is not a luxury for our companion animals – it's an essential biological need that directly impacts their quality of life. By understanding and accommodating the unique sleep requirements of different pets, we can help ensure they lead happy, healthy lives. 

At Companion Animals New Zealand, we believe that responsible pet care extends beyond the basics of food and shelter to understanding all aspects of animal wellbeing – including the importance of quality sleep. By making small adjustments to your pet's environment and routine, and monitoring their behaviour, you can help them get the rest they need to thrive. 

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Key References 

1. Zanghi, B.M. (2010). Importance of sleep: Performance, cognition and canine models of ageing. Nestlé Purina Companion Animal Nutrition Summit, 18-25.  

2. Kinsman, R., Owczarczak-Garstecka, S., Casey, R., Knowles, T., Tasker, S., Woodward, J., Da Costa, R., & Murray, J. (2020). Sleep Duration and Behaviours: A Descriptive Analysis of a Cohort of Dogs up to 12 Months of Age. Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 10(7), 1172. 

3. Williams, D.C., Aleman, M., Holliday, T.A., Fletcher, D.J., Tharp, B., Kass, P.H., Steffey, E.P., & LeCouteur, R.A. (2008). Qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the electroencephalogram in normal horses during spontaneous drowsiness and sleep. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 22(3), 630-638.  

4. Trocino, A., & Xiccato, G. (2006). Animal welfare in reared rabbits: A review with emphasis on housing systems. World Rabbit Science, 14(2), 77-93. 

New Zealand's unbreakable bond with pets: Insights from the latest Companion Animals NZ Report

Media release: 3 MArch 2025

New Zealand’s relationship with its companion animals remains as strong as ever, according to the latest findings from Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ).

The ‘2024 NZ Pet Data Report’ reveals that nearly two-thirds (63%) of New Zealand households share their home with a pet, a figure that highlights the deep bond New Zealanders continue to have with their animals.

Cats remain the most popular pet, with 40% of households owning a feline companion, while 31% of homes include a dog. Additionally, more than half (60%) of people who don't currently own a pet would like to have one.

Key insights from the 2024 Report:

• Pet ownership trends

  • Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households (63%) own pets, a figure which has seen no significant change in the past decade.

  • Cats remain the most popular pet (40%) with an estimated 1.26 million cats in NZ, followed closely by an estimated 830,000 dogs. The data suggests that the number of dog households has decreased slightly from 34% in 2020 to 31% in 2024.

  • Other pets, such as horses and rabbits, also contribute to New Zealand’s diverse pet population.

• Demographics and ownership patterns: Pet ownership varies by age and region.

  • Past the age of 65, companion animal ownership declines compared to all other age groups. Cats are particularly popular among people aged 45-64.

  • Households with children are more likely to have companion animals (66% to 71%, depending on the age of the children) compared to those with no children (60%). Households with older kids drive this pattern and are more likely to have dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, small mammals and fowl.

  • Auckland households are less likely to share their home with a companion animal than other regions.

• Reasons for having a pet:

  • Companionship remains the primary reason people choose to adopt pets, with love and affection central to the relationship particularly for cats, dogs, rabbits and birds.

  • Other key drivers of pet ownership included familiarity with the animal (e.g., person has had this type of animal before), cats ‘needing’ a home, as well as dogs for exercise and horses companionship and competing/breeding.

• Barriers to pet ownership:

  • Despite the widespread affection for animals, 22% of New Zealand households (approximately 440,000 households) report that they would like to own a pet but face barriers such as lifestyle, cost, and being hesitant about the responsibilities involved. Housing constraints were on the minds of younger people, especially those under 35, being more likely to encounter rental restrictions or financial considerations.

  • Among these non-pet owners, more than 60% express a desire to own a pet in the future, with cats and dogs as the most sought-after companions. 34% of non-pet owners stated that they have previously had pets.

• Acquiring a pet:

  • The SPCA and other animal rescues were the most common places to acquire cats, whereas dogs were more likely to be acquired from a breeder.

  • Private advertisements are a significant source of dogs, horses and rabbits while for cats, keeping strays is a common acquisition route. 

• Responsible Pet Care:

  • The survey highlighted growing trends in responsible pet care, including microchipping, desexing, and vet visits.

  • Desexing rates are reported as high, with 96% of owned cats and 85% of owned dogs being reported as desexed.

  • Microchipping has also increased, with 72% of cats and 89% of dogs microchipped in 2024, reflecting New Zealanders' growing commitment to pet welfare.

Professor Natalie Waran, Director of the A Good Life for Animals Centre, shared, "New Zealander’s strong bond with our companion animals shows just how important the relationship is. As the report highlights, the role of pets in our lives is deeply embedded in our culture – but it is also evolving. It’s not about ownership—it’s about companionship; with love and a commitment to share our lives with them."

She added, "As New Zealanders face the challenges of pet ownership and navigate changing societal expectations—particularly around how cats are managed—CANZ remains committed to improving the welfare of our pets. With the rising costs and time commitments involved, there’s a real opportunity to continue educating and advocating for more awareness of pet’s needs and what support is available. It’s also vital that we keep pushing for better standards, ensuring all animals live their best lives here in New Zealand."

For more information or to access the full 2024 NZ Pet Data Report, please visit www.companionanimals.nz/2024-nz-pet-data-report.

ABOUT THE REPORT

The NZ Pet Data Report is the largest, representative survey of pet population and ownership insights in NZ. Insights HQ were commissioned by Companion Animals NZ to undertake a survey of New Zealand households to size and profile the companion animal population, as well as assess attitudes towards companion animals in NZ. In 2024, the data was gathered between 23 September and 16 October 2024. A follow-up booster was conducted between 17 January and 3 February 2025 among rabbit owners to increase the sample size for rabbit ownership data, however, a population estimate was not available for rabbits due to low rabbit base size. More detail on methodology is available in the full report.

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ABOUT CANZ  

Companion Animals New Zealand (CANZ) is an independent, science-based charity committed to ensuring all companion animals live a 'Good Life' with responsible guardians. We use research, education and community programmes to achieve this. We also operate the New Zealand Companion Animal Register (NZCAR), the country's largest microchip database with more than 1.4 million pets registered. Our Board comprises independent trustees and representatives from a range of animal welfare groups, including SPCA, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), Dogs NZ, New Zealand Cat Fancy, the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) and the New Zealand Institute of Animal Management (NZIAM).