Common Household Toxins
Everyday Items That Can Poison Your Pet
Foods:
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and seizures.
- Grapes & Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
- Onions & Garlic: These foods can cause anemia in pets by damaging their red blood cells. Symptoms include weakness, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.
Medications:
- Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen): These common medications can cause severe stomach ulcers, liver failure, and kidney damage in pets. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
- Antidepressants & Cold Medicines: Even small doses can be harmful to pets, leading to tremors, seizures, and elevated heart rate.
Cleaning Products:
- Bleach & Disinfectants: These products can cause burns in the mouth and throat, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing if ingested by pets.
- Detergents: Dishwashing and laundry detergents, especially pods, can be dangerous if pets bite into them. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and breathing problems.
Seasonal Toxins
Seasonal Dangers to Watch For
Fall Dangers:
- Mushrooms: Some wild mushrooms can be toxic and lead to severe digestive issues, liver failure, and death. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
- Compost: Decomposing food waste can contain harmful bacteria and molds that produce toxins. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and tremors.
- Rodenticides: These poisons can cause internal bleeding or neurological damage in pets if ingested. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
- Antifreeze: Even a small amount of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is lethal to pets, causing kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and increased thirst.
Spring & Summer Dangers:
- Fertilizers & Pesticides: Many lawn and garden products can be toxic to pets. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
- Lilies (For Cats): Ingesting any part of a lily can cause acute kidney failure in cats. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
What to Do in Case of Poisoning
Emergency Steps if Your Pet Is Poisoned
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, act quickly:
- Remove your pet from the source of poisoning and ensure the area is safe.
- Identify the substance your pet has come into contact with and call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
- Follow veterinary instructions carefully. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional. Some substances can cause more harm if vomited.
Keep Your Pet Safe
Tips to Prevent Pet Poisoning
- Store toxic substances out of reach: Ensure cleaning products, medications, and dangerous foods are kept securely in cabinets or high places.
- Use pet-safe products: Opt for cleaners, fertilizers, and pest control solutions labeled safe for pets.
- Supervise outdoor activities: Keep your pets away from potential hazards like wild mushrooms or toxic plants.
- Be mindful of seasonal dangers: Stay aware of seasonal toxins like antifreeze in the winter and fertilizers in the summer.
Additional Resources
Related Resources
Emergency Contact:
If your pet is exposed to a toxic substance, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline at (888) 426-4435, available 24/7 or
visit your nearest veterinary emergency hospital immediately if you believe it is a life-threating emergency.