It’s warming up slowly and spring is around the corner. We will find ourselves outside more with our pets. There are several household threats that are toxic to pets. We have compiled a quick resource for pet owners to use to identify, avoid, and deal with if their pet accidentally gets into something bad.

Pets are naturally curious and don’t always avoid what is bad for them. Knowing what a potential threat is and keeping it out of reach is a great way to help prevent poisoning. Below you will find a list of top household toxins to use as a quick reference. Read on and you will find helpful links to resources for a more exhaustive list of household threats.

Top 8 Dangerous Household Toxins for Pets

Some human foods are very toxic to pets.

  • Alcohol
  • Grapes/Raisins
  • Prescription Medications
  • Over-the-counter medications-Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Cold Medicines like Sudafed, etc.
  • Lily plants
  • Xylitol-Found in many sugar-free foods.
  • Chocolate
  • Insecticides/Pesticides-Like bug sprays and rat poisons

Some Facts about Pet Poisonings

Trupanion a pet medical insurance provider shares this, “Since 2013, we have paid $2.9 million toward toxicity claims for cats and dogs. Below are some of the most common poisons we found and what you can do to protect your pet.” (https://trupanion.com/pet-care/poison-prevention)

ASPCA.org is a great resource for looking up common and sometimes not so common household toxins for pets.  This site’s lists are searchable by pet type as well as by toxin. If you are worried that your cat might get into your houseplants look up the type of plant and see if it’s toxic to cats. Read this article about common household plants and their varying levels of toxicity to pets.   (https://www.aspca.org/news/houseplant-safe-your-pets)

If you are considering adding some new houseplants or outdoor landscaping to your yard this spring give this a look and be sure you aren’t planting poisonous plants or using fertilizers around your yard that are toxic to your pets.

ASPCA provides a list of both toxic and non-toxic plants and foods.  You can find their searchable list here.

What Should You Do In A Pet Poison Emergency

Get Help Fast– Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435 If you believe your pet may have gotten into something toxic. There is a separate fee for calling and be sure to keep a record of your case number. Then give us a call at 949-766-4449.

In many cases with toxins time is critical. Try to get your pet to us as soon as possible for treatment.

Consider having insurance on all of your pets-This helps reduce the costs of medical care in the event of an emergency. There are lots of great companies to choose from. We have information on several.  We have several patients using Trupanion, ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, and PetsBest.

Get help fast if you think your pet has eaten something toxic.

Keep Pet Information Handy-Our phone number (949)766-4449 and our address, and any packaging from the item that was eaten, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number (888)426-4435, and your pet insurance information.  Print out this quick reference card to get you started.

Print this card and keep it handy with your pet’s information.

Pet-Info-Card.docx (printable format)