Did you know March is National Poison Prevention Month for pet owners? Our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert wants to go over common, everyday items that are poisonous (and often easily accessible) to pets. You can find many of these items in your kitchen pantry, garage, garden, and even your purse or backpack. Most of these items are so commonly used that they are left in places where dogs and cats can easily access them. These items, however, can be seriously harmful to our fur babies. It’s important for pet owners to be aware of these poisonous items, and to find safe places to store them so they’re out of reach of your cats and dogs. Keep reading to discover some of the most common poisons to our pets, and what you can do in the case of pet poisoning.
House (or Garden) Plants That are Poisonous to Pets
Plants are everywhere—in your house, around your yard, in your garden, and along sidewalks as you take Fido out for a stroll. It is important for pet owners to know which plants are poisonous to your pets. For example, lilies are particularly dangerous for cats, and sago palms for dogs. The following plants are dangerous for pets:
- Lily
- Sago palm
- Daffodil
- Foxglove
- Yew
- Tulip
- Azalea
- Dumb Cane
Dangerous Items In Your Medicine Cabinet
Human pain medications are a commonly ingested poison among dogs and cats because they are often easily accessed. Pills may be within reach—in a purse or backpack, on a low bedside table, or dropped on the floor. Here are some common household poisonous medicines and substances:
- NSAIDs (Advil, ibuprofen, Aspirin)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Albuterol (in inhalers)
- THC (in medicinal marijuana)
- Hand sanitizer
Common Hazards In Your Kitchen
Many common foods found in the kitchen are toxic to pets, including:
- Chocolate
- Macadamias
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Yeast dough
- Any product made with Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Pet Poisons In Your Garage
Your garage, shed, laundry room, basement, and cabinets can contain a wide array of poisonous hazards, including:
- Bleach
- Household cleaners
- Dishwashing detergent
- Laundry detergent & fabric softener
- Garbage
- Rodent poison or traps
- Lawn fertilizer & chemicals
- Antifreeze
- De-icing salt
Common Symptoms of Pet Poisoning
You might not always know when your pet has eaten something poisonous, so it’s important to know what to look for. Signs and symptoms of poisoning can look very different depending on what toxin was ingested—but some of the most common signs include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/loss of or decreased appetite
- Seizures
- Lethargy/weakness
- Drooling
- Any abnormal behavior
- Increased thirst or urination
How To Prepare & Respond
The best way to prepare for potential pet poisoning is to scour your home, garage, and yard for potential hazards, and place them out of reach of your pets. Keep emergency contact information easily accessible at all times. This should include the number for the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661), the phone number for Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert (480-497-0505), as well as the name and location of a local 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital.
Prepare a pet first aid kit with any supplies you may need. Of course, if you believe your pet has ingested a poison, call the Pet Poison Helpline immediately and do not hesitate or wait for signs and symptoms before taking your pet to see your vet. The good news is that pet poisoning is completely preventable, so taking some simple steps can ensure your fur baby stays happy and healthy!