What do chocolate, onions, ibuprofen, and lilies have in common? These are some of the many household items that are perfectly harmless for people, but toxic and dangerous for pets. The animal poison control helplines in North America receive hundreds of calls each day from concerned pet owners and veterinary professionals caring for poisoned pets, but you can take steps to keep your pet from becoming a statistic. Here are the Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital team’s tips to protect your pet from the most common household toxins.

#1: Avoid feeding toxic human foods

Food toxins account for many pet poisonings, because pets love to eat, and because pet-toxic foods are readily available in most people’s homes. Never offer pets the following foods, and ensure they are stored securely out of your pet’s reach at all times:

  • Chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Onions, garlic, shallots, and leeks
  • Raisins and grapes
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Alcohol
  • Xylitol-containing candy, gum, or baked goods

#2: Never administer medications or supplements without veterinarian approval

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications have passed rigorous safety and efficacy tests before they reach pharmacy shelves, but they are approved for humans only. For pets, many everyday medications are toxic and can lead to significant harm, such as liver or kidney failure, seizures, or death. If your pet is not well, or you would like more information about supplements that could help or harm your pet, contact our veterinary team. 

The most common toxic OTC medications given to pets include:

  • NSAIDs (i.e. ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Acetaminophen (i.e., Tylenol)
  • Cough and cold medications
  • Herbal supplements

#3: Don’t assume that child-proof equals pet-proof

Prescription medications are also a problem for pets, but they are usually accidentally ingested rather than purposefully given by well-meaning pet owners. Plastic child-proof medication vials are not pet-proof, and a pet who chews one like a toy will likely ingest some contents. Some pets will also eat stray pills on the floor, assuming they are a tasty treat. All prescription medications should be stored securely in a high cabinet, out of your pet’s reach. Keep bags, purses, and backpacks that contain medications or candy out of the way and off the floor, too.

#4: Inspect your yard for toxic plants

Are you familiar with the plant species living in your yard? Most people are not, but you could be harboring some plants dangerous for pets. Plant toxicity varies from mild mouth or stomach irritation, to organ failure and death. Consult a landscaper to help you look for and eliminate toxic plants from your yard, or check this list of the 17 most common toxic plants.

#5: Know what’s in your decorative floral bouquets

People love to bring outside beauty into their homes with flowers and houseplants, but they have the same rules as outside plants. Cats especially love to chew on foliage and grasses, so ensuring you keep only safe plants in your home is essential. Lilies, tulips, and sago palms are good examples of beautiful plants that may cause your pets significant harm, or death.

#6: Use non-toxic rodent control methods

Unfortunately for pets, rodent poison has come a long way in recent years. Older-generation poisons cause blood clotting problems that can be easily treated if detected early, but newer versions are far more difficult to treat and may result in death, regardless of treatment. These products are designed to kill, and do so efficiently, so avoid using rodent poisons around your home and instead invest in traps or other control methods. Also, ensure your pets stay in your home or yard if you suspect your neighbors are using rodenticides.

#7: Use caution around antifreeze

While antifreeze poisoning is not so common, only a small amount of this substance will lead rapid kidney failure and death. Many antifreeze products taste sweet, and pets will readily lick them from the garage floor or an open container. Use extreme caution with antifreeze, ensuring products are stored out of reach, and that you keep your pet away from leaks in your garage or on your driveway.

If your pet is exposed to a toxin, contact the Pet Poison Helpline, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, your primary veterinarian, or the nearest veterinary emergency hospital for immediate advice and care. The faster you act after a poisoning, the better your pet’s chances for recovery. For additional advice or information about common household pet toxins, or to schedule a routine veterinary visit, contact the Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital team.