Five Hazardous Toxins for Your Pet at Home
In celebration of National Animal Poison Prevention Week happening on March 19 to 25, our team desires to share details about some of the most dangerous household items that can be hazardous for your pets.
#1: Medications
Whether it’s a pack of beef-flavored heartworm preventatives or their owners’ prescription medicine, accidental ingestion of medications is one of the most hazardous household dangers for pets. Food-motivated pups may seize up any dropped pills before they can be retrieved, while some are clever and sly enough to pry open pill bottles in guests’ suitcases or rummage through countertops – all without being noticed. Should your pet consume medication unintentionally, contact an animal poison control hotline as soon as possible since overdoses can potentially be fatal.
#2: Batteries and coins
If ingested, batteries and coins can lead to metallic poisoning in your pet. Additionally, if a battery is chewed on or punctured by your furry companion it could cause chemical burns. Even worse, if an undamaged battery is swallowed whole – it has the potential to become lodged as a gastrointestinal blockage.
#3: Food
Keep your furry friends safe in the kitchen by avoiding tempting hazards. There are many food items that can be toxic to pets and cause serious illnesses, such as chocolate, macadamia nuts, xylitol, avocados, unbaked yeast dough and alcohol – just to name a few. To prevent counter-surfing pet antics and inquisitive noses from getting into trash cans filled with hazardous foods or beverages – invest in a locking bin for maximum safety.
#4: Household chemicals
To keep your pet safe and sound, make sure to store all hazardous chemicals in a secure place where they can’t be reached. These common household items are especially toxic for animals:
- Cleaning products
- Disinfectants
- Aerosol air fresheners and other products
- Candles
- Antifreeze
- Windshield washer fluid
- Paint
- Glue
- Nail polish remover
#5: Houseplants
Many houseplants, and the chemicals that help them thrive, are poisonous to pets. Lilies, in particular, are exceptionally hazardous to cats; coming in contact with only the pollen can be fatal. Other common houseplants that pose a threat to your pet include dieffenbachia, elephant ears, and spider plants. Several outdoor plants, such as ivy and oleander, can also be poisonous to pets. Before bringing a bouquet into your home or adding greenery to your garden, check the ASPCA’s toxic plant list to ensure your blooms are pet-safe.
If you believe your pet has encountered a dangerous substance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team right away.