Your home may be filled with items you might not think twice about but that are hazardous to your pet. From seemingly harmless cleaners and plants to everyday pantry items, a myriad of risky things exist that pet owners should be wary of when it comes to their pet’s well-being.

Our Companion Care Animal Clinic team offers a guide to some household items you should take precautions with to keep your furry companion healthy and safe.

Untasty: Toxic foods for pets

Your fridge is likely filled with foods you find delectable—and so does your hungry pet. Unfortunately, many human foods can harm or poison your pet. Signs of food toxicity often include nausea and vomiting, excessive panting, restlessness, diarrhea, and disorientation, and can sometimes lead to life-threatening conditions. Never give your pet any of the following foods:

  • Onions and garlic
  • Grapes, raisins, or currants
  • Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some peanut butter
  • Avocados
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Raw bread dough
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Fruit pits

Rewarding your pet is an excellent way to encourage good behavior, so we understand you want to treat them. Instead of using potentially dangerous food, however, opt for pet treats, cuddles, or a walk to the park. 

Potent plants: Pet-toxic household and yard plants

Plants are beautiful, but did you know some are poisonous to pets? Several different household and garden plants can be toxic to your pet if they nibble or eat them. Understanding non-toxic versus toxic plants is essential before you bring any greenery home. The following plants are a few of the varieties poisonous to pets:

  • Lilies (especially lethal to cats)
  • Rhododendrons
  • Azaleas
  • Oleanders
  • Sago palms
  • Yews
  • Daffodil and narcissus bulbs
  • Certain varieties of ivy
  • Philodendrons

Dangerous details: Small and stringed items unsafe for pets

Pets are notorious for getting into things they consider a toy or an edible snack. Cats love to bat around small objects or play with string, while dogs enjoy snuffling around the floor, investigating things to put in their mouth. However, these items can cause choking, blockages, or internal injuries. Pick up any of the following items lying around your house:

  • Sewing thread, yarn, and dental floss
  • Gift wrapping, including curling ribbon
  • Keys
  • Buttons
  • Coins
  • Small toys
  • Wires and electrical cords

Chancy chemicals: Household cleaners toxic to pets

While certain chemicals we use at home can benefit us, they can also be toxic to pets. Whenever possible, use pet-friendly products designed for use around cats and dogs. Never expose your pet to any of the following chemicals and products:

  • Bleach 
  • Ammonia
  • Bathroom and counter cleaners
  • Carpet fresheners and cleaners
  • Drain cleaners
  • Toilet bowl tablets
  • Antifreeze and battery acid
  • Pesticides
  • Rat and mouse baits
  • Mothballs
  • Fertilizers and herbicides
  • Fragrance sprays and potpourri

Menacing medication: Human drugs and pets

Medication toxicity is a common form of pet poisoning, affecting more than 42,000 cats and dogs annually. Since pills and capsules accidentally dropped on the floor can go unnoticed, it’s critical to be vigilant when taking medications around your pet. Many drugs used to treat health issues in people, including painkillers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen), antidepressants, and cold and flu medicines, are often poisonous to pets, whether in small or large doses. Never give your pet human medications without your veterinarian’s guidance. 

Pet-proofing your home

The good news is that you can mitigate the risks to your pet through pet-proofing. Much like child-proofing, pet-proofing involves measures you can take to keep your pet away from harmful items or substances. 

  • Place chemicals and cleaners on a high shelf or in a storage cabinet when not in use.
  • Keep medications in a cabinet, never on a bedside table. Discard expired medicines by taking them to your pharmacy. 
  • Use pet-friendly cleaners and lawn and garden products.
  • Block your pet’s access when you are cleaning by using a baby gate or putting them in another room of your home.
  • Monitor your pet when they are outdoors, and keep them away from chemically treated lawns.
  • Choose pet-safe, non-toxic plants to beautify your home and garden.
  • Save the Pet Poison Helpline number on your phone for quick reference should your pet ingest something poisonous.

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks from your home, being aware of potential dangers and taking precautions can ensure a safer, healthier life for your pet. If you suspect your pet was exposed to a household hazard, contact Companion Care Animal Clinic or your closest emergency clinic.