Many common foods, household items, and plants are dangerous to your fur babies.
Read on for helpful lists and safety tips in case your pet gets into something he or she shouldn’t.
These items range in toxicity, but each is harmful. Note: These are not complete lists of potentially lethal pet toxins.
Top 10 Toxins for Dogs
- Chocolate
- Mouse and rat poisons (rodenticides)
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Xylitol: a sugar substitute found in peanut butter, sugar-free gum, and more
- Grapes and raisins
- Antidepressant medications
- Acetaminophen, e.g. Tylenol
- Vitamin D
- Stimulant medications, e.g. for ADD/ADHD in humans
- Fertilizers
Top 10 Toxins for Cats
- Lilies (Lilium species)
- Topical flea/tick medications for dogs
- Household cleaners
- Antidepressant medications
- Essential oils
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Mouse and rat poisons (rodenticides)
- Stimulant medications, e.g. for ADD/ADHD in humans
- Onions and garlic
- Vitamin D
Download Pet Poison Helpline’s extensive infographic of toxins commonly found in different places in your home. Be sure all these items are out of your fur baby’s reach! Better safe than sorry, especially with a very curious pet.
Digging Deeper: Toxic Plants
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center offers lists of toxic foliage and vegetation, as well as the effects these plants could have on your fur baby: click here for dogs and here for cats.
For general information, visit ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control.
In Case of Emergency: Have a Plan
If you ever suspect your pet has ingested something dangerous or toxic, time is of the essence. Call us immediately during hospital hours at (919) 471-0308.
After hours, call Triangle Veterinary Referral Hospital (TVRH) at (919) 489-0615.
Every home with a fur baby is safer with a pet poison emergency kit that contains:
- A copy of your pet’s vaccine record
- A list of any medical issues your pet has and/or medications he or she is on\
- Basic first-aid supplies: alcohol wipes, gauze pads, and adhesive tape, instant ice pack, ear-cleaning solution, liquid dish soap without a bleach additive (e.g. Dawn)
Never attempt any home treatment without first speaking to us or an emergency veterinarian.
Be sure to keep your pet’s collar and leash at the ready, as well as a proper carrier and a soft towel or blanket. Bundling up your pet tightly could help keep him or her calm on the way to us or TVRH.
