Pet Poison Prevention

Pet Poison Prevention

There are numerous toxic substances around the house that can be harmful and even fatal to our pets. Understanding what potential harmful poisons exist in your home and yard is the first step to keeping your pet safe. 

A small list of common poisons includes:

Household plants

  • Azalea (especially for dogs)
  • Lilies (especially for cats)
  • Oleander
  • Dieffenbachia
  • Sago Palm
  • Tulips
  • Hyacinths
  • Poinsettia

Human foods

  • Alcohol
  • Chocolate
  • Coffee and Caffeine
  • Citrus
  • Coconut and Coconut Oil
  • Grapes and Raisins
  • Macadamia Nuts
  • Onions, Garlic, Chives
  • Xylitol (a sweetener found in some gums, candies and toothpaste)

Household products and medications

  • Bleach
  • Fertilizers, weed killers and insecticides
  • Rodenticides
  • Antifreeze
  • Carpet fresheners and shampoos
  • Fabric Softener Sheets
  • Toilet Cleaning Tablets
  • Petroleum Jelly
  • Oven cleaner
  • Cigarettes
  • Batteries
  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen and Naproxen
  • Cold and allergy medications

Take special care to keep these toxins out of your pet’s reach and pet-proof your house.

In Case of Pet Poisoning

Information and preparation are key to poison control. Therefore, being able to recognize the signs and symptoms that your pet may be in danger is necessary.

Common signs and symptoms of pet poisoning include the following:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling
  • Seizures
  • Lethargy
  • Black or bloody stool

Some effects of pet poisoning are not visible to the eye, such as heart, kidney or liver damage. However, a change in urination habits it may be a sign of pet poisoning.

Take action

If you think your pet got into something poisonous, try to track down what it might be and obtain as much information about what and how much exposure your pet could have received. If the item is possibly dangerous, or if your pet shows any signs and symptoms, contact your veterinarian. If you cannot reach a veterinarian, you can try:

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Poisonings are a tragic but preventable occurrence, so learn more about the potential dangers in your home and precautions you should take to keep our pets happy and healthy.

For more information on poisonous items and tips to keep your pets safe, check out the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center.