YORK vets are warning families to keep their pets away from Easter eggs, hot cross buns and other seasonal food.

Tower Vets, who have six surgeries and bases in the city, are preparing for an increase of cases in the next couple of weeks.

They warn that chocolate, raisins and some sweets contain chemicals which can kill pets.

And they warn that cats can die from eating lilies and dogs from eating crocus and tulip bulbs.

Vet Amy Beckett said: “Whether it’s caused by well-meaning owners treating their pets with chocolate or chocolate accidentally left within their reach, we see a lot of dogs suffering from chocolate poisoning at this time of year.

"The darker the chocolate, the greater the risk.

"The safest option is to keep chocolate and sweets locked away, well out of reach of pets."

She said that the traditional Easter roast can be rich and fatty and cause gastroenteritis or choking on bones.

“Even the most well-behaved pets can be tempted to steal food so make sure they can’t get access to the tops of cookers or kitchen worktops,” she said.

And she urged anyone whose pet eats something they shouldn't to contact a vet.