Mar 01, 2024 | By, For Pet's Sake
Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month: Keep these items away from your pet and watch for these symptoms
It is no secret our pets love to snack, and owners know they are no strangers to snacking on things they shouldn’t. While our pets generally have strong immune systems, certain items can pose serious health risks if consumed.
March celebrates Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month, and like humans, many foods and products can induce severe illnesses in pets, from kidney failure to death. Preventing pet poisoning begins with maintaining a safe living environment. Here are the most common foods and items poisonous to pets and poison symptoms to be aware of.
Foods and items poisonous to pets
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that can be lethal to dogs and cats. It is important to keep pets away from human sweets and desserts, especially those containing chocolate.
- Grapes: Grapes, including raisins, are toxic to pets due to the presence of tartaric acid, which can lead to kidney failure and other severe illnesses.
- Onions: Along with similar spices such as garlic, leeks, and chives, onions contain thiosulfate, a toxic chemical to animals that lowers the number of red blood cells, which leads to anemia.
- Nuts: Common nuts such as almonds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews can cause constipation and vomiting if ingested.
- Caffeine: Stimulants like caffeine can affect your pet’s heart rate and cause seizures, so keep their drinking bowls clear of coffee, tea, and energy drinks and stick to water.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol and cleaning products containing alcohol are poisonous to pets and can induce human-like intoxication symptoms, including vomiting, tremors, drooling, and loss of coordination.
- Xylitol: An artificial sweetener present in peanut butter, candy, and other sweets, xylitol can be deadly, so always check the food product’s label before feeding.
- Fumes and gases: Inhalation of carbon monoxide, smoke from fires, and other potent fumes can be deadly to pets. Remove your pet from environments with heavy fumes immediately and bring them outside for fresh air.
- Plants: Many common household plants are poisonous to pets, including lilies, tulips, autumn crocus, and sage palms, with effects ranging from diarrhea to liver failure.
- Human medications: Keep human medications, vitamins, and supplements out of your pet’s reach. If your pet falls ill, seek veterinarian care and only give them the correct dosages prescribed and recommended by the vet.
- Cleaning products: Items containing alcohol and other harmful chemicals can cause your pet skin burns, vomiting, diarrhea, and death. Store all chemical products out of your pet’s reach and make sure they are fastened properly.
- Lawn fertilizer: Certain lawn and garden fertilizers can cause breathing difficulties, skin redness, vomiting, and more when ingested. For owners with pets who enjoy yard frolicking, opt for an organic, pet-friendly fertilizer.
Signs of poisoning
Pet owners should always be aware of their pet’s behavior and any changes to it. Signs your pet may have been poisoned include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Sensitive to touch
- Pale gums
- Bad breath
- Lack of appetite
- Bloating
- Collapse
- Increased heart rate
- Changes in thirst and urination
If your pet is showing any signs of poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately.
A single swallow or bite can cost your pet’s life. Education and maintaining a poison-proof home are key to keeping our furry companions safe and alive. Spread awareness of Pet Poison Prevention Month every day of the year by educating others, storing dangerous items away from your pet, and keeping them in safe environments!
Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.
