Join us in observing Pet Poison Prevention Week (March 15-21)

Did you know that 50% of pet poisonings happen from common household items? In observance of Poison Prevention Week (March 15-21) we’re sharing common household items that are poisonous to pets. Our furry friends have a knack for finding the one thing they shouldn’t touch – keep these items out of their reach!

🍳 The Kitchen

The kitchen can be a danger zone for curious sniffers.

• Grapes & Raisins: Can cause acute kidney failure in dogs.
• Onions, Garlic, & Chives: Can damage red blood cells (leading to anemia), especially in cats.
• Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, vomiting, and tremors in dogs.
• Alcohol & Caffeine: Can cause heart arrhythmias or seizures.

🥫 The Pantry

Keep a close eye on “hidden” ingredients, especially in processed snacks.

• Xylitol (Birch Sugar): Can be found in peanut butter. Causes a massive insulin spike and liver failure. Extremely toxic.
• Chocolate: The darker the more dangerous.
• Salt: Large amounts can cause salt poisoning/brain swelling.

🛌 The Bedroom

Pay close attention to what’s on your nightstand!

• Essential Oils: Diffusing highly concentrated oils like tea tree, peppermint, or cinnamon can be toxic to cats.
• Melatonin Gummies (for humans): Contain xylitol which is extremely toxic.
• Mothballs: Can cause liver failure if ingested.

🧼 The Bathroom & Cleaning Closet

• Bleach & Drain Cleaners: Can cause severe burns to the mouth and esophagus.
• Fabric Softener Sheets: Can cause mouth ulcers and GI distress.

💊 The Medicine Cabinet

Never give a pet human medication unless specifically directed by a vet.

• NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve, Motrin): Can cause fatal stomach ulcers and kidney failure.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Particularly deadly to cats.
• Antidepressants & ADHD Meds: Can lead to dangerously high heart rates and seizures.

🪴 And More (Living Room & Garage)

• Lilies: Even a tiny bit of pollen or water from the vase can cause total kidney failure in cats.
• Sago Palms: Highly toxic to dogs.
• Antifreeze: Extremely toxic to dogs.
• Rodenticides: Causes internal bleeding or brain swelling.

An informed pet parent, is the best pet parent! We encourage you to spend a few hours during Pet Poison Prevention Week going through your home and making sure any of the items on this list are far out of reach from your pets.

If you are nervous that your pet got into something they shouldn’t, always give us a call at 203-973-7768 so we can help you and jump into action if needed! We also recommend keeping the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) saved in your phone. If your pet eats something suspicious, it’s always better to call than to “wait and see.”