If you have pets, you understand the benefits they bring to your family. Their inquisitiveness, unconditional love, and playfulness make every day different. You just never know what they’ll do next to put a smile on your face.
March is pet poison prevention awareness month. This is an excellent opportunity if you’re a new or a veteran pet owner to learn or be reminded about the different items around your home that can be dangerous to your furry friend. Or, if you’re traveling on spring break this year, please make sure your pet sitter is aware of hazardous items as well.
As the owner of an orange tabby cat named Toulouse, I’m always amazed at what he finds on the floors around our home. If anyone has something he’s interested in, we can’t turn our backs on him for one second. If we do, he’s on it.
Here are some things around your house that can be dangerous and lead to potentially life-threatening situations.
Household chemicals
With more daylight already here and the transition to warmer temperatures around the corner, you may find the urge to do spring cleaning or projects around your home. If so, remember to keep these household items away from your pet:
- Toilet bowl cleaner
- Drain cleaner
- Paint
- Paint thinner
- Pool chemicals
- Antifreeze
Food
We’re very strict with Toulouse’s food. He only gets dry pet food, and some cat treats daily. While you may think it’s nice to broaden your pets’ horizons with human food, some foods are toxic. Some examples include:
- Chocolate
- Xylitol (sugar-free sweetener found in gum)
- Coffee grounds
- Alcohol
- Raw meat
- Nuts
- Onion and garlic
- Dairy products
- Baby food
- Grapes and raisins
Medications
Have you ever set down your medication while getting a glass of water and got distracted by something else? If you have, you understand the sudden panic that sets in when you realize what you did. While some human medications may be ok as prescribed by veterinarians, make sure to keep medications in a secure place. Never leave medication on the counter in a bottle or plastic bag. If your pet sets his mind to it, he will get the package open. Medications include:
- Pain relievers
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Vitamins
- Joint supplements
Plants and flowers
Plants and flowers are an excellent and affordable way to add color and beauty to your home. However, depending on the type, they can be very poisonous. Here are a few that should be kept away from your pets:
- Azaleas
- Daffodils
- Lilies
Outdoor items
As you work to get your lawn, flower beds, and gardens ready to grow, don’t forget to use caution with fertilizer. If you spill some, clean it up immediately. Keep fertilizer in a locked cabinet if you have children or pets. Additional dangerous items include rodenticides and insecticides.
To see the top pet poisons for your cat or dog, visit the Pet Poison Helpline.
Do you have any suggestions or information you’d like to share? I’d love to hear from you. Please share them in the box below.
Source:
https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/
https://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/top-10-cat-poisons
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/top-10-dog-poisons#1
