Household Toxins: Everyday Items That Could Harm Your Pet

As pet owners, we strive to create a safe and loving environment for our cats and dogs. Many everyday household items that seem harmless to us can pose serious poisoning risks to pets. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, the perfect time to raise awareness about these hidden dangers. At Club Hill Animal Clinic, we want to help you recognize and eliminate potential threats in your home to keep your pets safe and healthy.

Foods That Are Toxic to Pets

While most pet owners know about chocolate and grapes, there are many other foods that can be harmful.

• Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, vomiting, and tremors.
• Raw Bread Dough: Expands in the stomach, potentially leading to life-threatening bloat.
• Caffeine and Tea Leaves: Can lead to restlessness, rapid breathing, and seizures.
• Sugar-Free Gum and Candy: Xylitol, a sugar substitute, can cause rapid insulin release, leading to severe hypoglycemia.

Veterinarians recommend sticking to pet-safe food, but if you are considering giving your cat or dog something other than pet food, consult with a veterinary professional first or check an approved guide like this guide to poisonous foods for pets from the ASPCA.

Hidden Household Pet Toxins

Many common items found in every home can be toxic to pets if ingested or even inhaled. 

• Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus and wintergreen, can be toxic to both cats and dogs.
• Fabric Softener Sheets: Contain detergents that can cause drooling, vomiting, and severe oral and gastrointestinal ulcers.
• Batteries: If chewed or swallowed, batteries can cause severe burns and internal injuries.
• Human Toothpaste: May contain xylitol and/or fluoride, both of which are highly toxic to pets.

How to Pet-Proof Your Home to Prevent Poisoning 

Taking proactive measures to pet-proof your home can prevent accidental poisonings. Keep human food, medications, and vitamins in closed cabinets out of pets’ reach. Avoid using harsh chemicals and opt for non-toxic, pet-friendly alternatives. Keep purses and bags out of reach of cats and dogs. Many personal items, like gum, pain relievers, and lotions, can be hazardous to pets. Be mindful of where you place small objects. Batteries, coins, and loose pills should be stored in secure locations. Use secure trash bins so that your pet cannot get into the garbage. Research plants before bringing them home with a guide on toxic plants. Avoid keeping toxic plants such as lilies, sago palms, and philodendrons.

What to Do If Your Pet Swallows Something Toxic

If you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic, take immediate action. Look for symptoms like vomiting, drooling, seizures, lethargy, and breathing difficulties. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.

Contact your veterinarian for emergency pet care or poison control immediately. Pet hotlines such as the Pet Poison Helpline can provide emergency guidance for a fee. If you are instructed to go to a veterinary facility, bring the suspected toxin with you in a sealed container or make sure to note what the toxic substance is and about how much your cat or dog swallowed.

Club Hill Animal Clinic in Garland Can Help with Pet Poisoning

March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, so use this article from Club Hill Animal Clinic to assess the hidden dangers in your home and take action to keep your pets safe. Many toxins are lurking in plain sight, but by staying informed and making simple adjustments, you can prevent dangerous incidents.

If you are in Garland, Texas or the nearby cities of Mesquite and Rowlett and think your pet may have eaten something toxic, contact us today for emergency care.