When you bring a pet into your home, you are responsible for their health, safety, well-being, and happiness. That means being aware of items in your home that could result in accidental poisoning. Some very common household products and items can be very dangerous to pets. Here is a look at the most common causes of pet poisoning.
Poisonous Plants
Certain indoor houseplants and outdoor plants can be toxic or dangerous for pets. Try to keep these plants away from your pet, and don’t have them in your home:
- Oleander
- Poinsettia
- Lilies
- African violets
- Aloe
- Amaryllis
- Daffodils
- Sago palm
- Ivy
- Tulips
- Rhododendrons
- Chrysanthemum
- Begonia
- Hyacinth
- Azalea
- Mistletoe
- Philodendron
Dangerous Foods
Many foods that are safe for humans are deadly for pets. Your pet could become ill or even die after ingesting just a small amount of these foods:
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Xylitol
- Alcohol
- Yeast
- Avocado
- Coffee
- Nuts
- Raisins and grapes
- Onion
- Garlic
- Coconut and coconut oil
- Chives
- Bones
- Raw meat and raw eggs
Hazardous Household Products
Household products can also be dangerous to your pet and cause accidental poisoning if ingested. Keep these products out of reach of your pet:
- Antifreeze
- Bleach
- Medications
- Carpet cleaners, shampoos, and fresheners
- Essential oils
- Fabric softener sheet
- Scented cat litter
- Toilet cleaning tablets
- Petroleum jelly
- Medicated creams and ointments
Symptoms of Poisoning in Pets
Be aware of the early warning signs of poisoning in pets so that you can get your pet medical attention right away:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive thirst
- Panting
- Restless behavior
- Aggression
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Disinterest in normal activities
- Lack of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Labored breathing
- Loss of balance or trouble walking
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Blood in urine, stool, or vomit
- Swelling
If you suspect that your pet has gotten into something dangerous, bring him to the closest emergency veterinary hospital right away.
