Common household poisons - protect your pets!

Published on Monday, December 19, 2011

We all know how curious our cats and dogs can be and how they will try to eat almost anything, but when you combine this with the sheer number of plants, substances and foods in the average home which could be hazardous to your pet, you have a dangerous situation. Your best tool in the fight against curious paws is knowledge, so do your homework and make sure you are aware of these threats and how to remove them from your household. Below we have provided you with an introduction to some of the most common dangers along with links to external websites so that you can do some more research for yourself.

Household chemicals, insecticides and poisons:

This group of substances is the most common killer of our pets in the UK. Rat poisons, lawn feed, insecticides, antifreeze and household cleaners should be kept in a locked cabinet unless in use as only a small amount can be fatal. The same goes for such substances stored in your garage or garden shed; make sure they are not accessible by a wondering cat, whether yours or a neighbours.

Human medicines:

Pills bottles do not often prove to be much of a barrier to doggie teeth. Chewed pill bottles will open easily spilling the contents for your dog or cat to swallow. Keep all medicines in a locked cabinet, even if they are mild (such as diet pills and vitamins), as they may be hazardous. Never give human medicines to pets unless instructed to by a vet. Even if you are given medicines by your vet, always read the label before dispensing it to your pet. Some dog medicines can be fatal to cats.

Foods:

It is best not to feed your pet anything from the table as a surprising amount of foods can be dangerous and potentially lethal to your pet. For example chocolate is very bad for dogs and can lead to an abnormal heart rhythm, tremors and seizures in extreme cases. Apples, raisins, avocadoes, coffee, onions, garlic, alcohol and some nuts and raw or undercooked meat can be dangerous to cats and dogs. It is best to stick to dog and cat food with the occasional treat of properly cooked meat or purpose made treats.

Plants:

Many common household and garden plants are toxic to animals, so make sure you know what you are bringing into your house. The Dogs Trust charity have created a list of poisonous plants for you to refer to, check it out here. The Feline Advisory Bureau has done the same and created a fact sheet for poisonous plants here. As well as adding lots of useful information here on common household poisons. If you would like some assistance with keeping your cats and dogs away from hazardous materials have a look at our Pet Mesh.

Remember to always take your pet to the vet immediately if you suspect they have been poisoned. Take the bottle or name of the item which you think they have swallowed as it will assist the vet in diagnosing the treating the problem.