You love your pet like family, but some of the things sitting in your kitchen, bathroom, or backyard could seriously harm them. Poison Prevention Month is the perfect time to highlight the dangers hiding in plain sight.
While many pet owners know about chocolate and antifreeze, there’s a surprisingly long list of household items that can be toxic to pets. Some of the most dangerous things are the ones we never think twice about.
Kitchen Toxins
Let’s start where the snacks live: the kitchen.
-
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
-
Onions, garlic, and chives (raw or cooked) can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.
-
Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, baked goods, and peanut butter, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure.
-
Chocolate (especially dark chocolate) contains theobromine, which is toxic to both dogs and cats.
-
Alcohol and caffeine should always be kept far from furry paws, as they can lead to tremors, seizures, or worse.
Even seemingly healthy foods like macadamia nuts or unbaked bread dough can be life-threatening. That’s why it’s best to keep pets out of the kitchen when you’re cooking or baking.
Bathroom and Medicine Cabinet
Hazards It’s easy to forget how dangerous human medications can be to pets. Common over-the-counter and prescription drugs like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antidepressants, and even vitamins can cause severe harm or death.
Never give your pet any human medication unless explicitly directed by your veterinarian. Doses safe for humans can be deadly for animals.
Cleaning Supplies and Household Chemicals
Many cleaning agents contain bleach, ammonia, or phenols, which can irritate your pet’s skin, eyes, or respiratory tract. Even “natural” or “green” cleaners can be harmful if ingested.
Keep all cleaning supplies in locked cabinets or high shelves. Be mindful of where your pet walks after you’ve cleaned. Residue on paws can be ingested during grooming.
Garden and Garage Risks
-
Fertilizers and herbicides can be toxic if your pet licks treated grass or digs in freshly fertilized soil.
-
Rodenticides and slug bait are especially deadly and often flavored to attract animals.
-
Antifreeze has a sweet taste that pets love, but just a few licks can be fatal.
Store all chemicals out of reach and never leave spills or containers open.
Plant Dangers
Many common houseplants and outdoor blooms are toxic to pets:
-
Lilies are extremely dangerous for cats. Just licking pollen can cause kidney failure.
-
Sago palms, azaleas, oleander, and tulips are also harmful.
Before bringing a plant home, double-check that it’s pet-safe. The ASPCA has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning
Signs of poisoning can vary depending on the toxin, but may include:
-
Vomiting or diarrhea
-
Drooling or foaming at the mouth
-
Lethargy or weakness
-
Seizures or tremors
-
Loss of coordination
-
Changes in behavior or breathing
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, or if you even suspect they’ve ingested something dangerous, call Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Time is critical.
Do not try to induce vomiting without speaking to a vet first. Some substances can cause more damage coming back up.
How to Poison-Proof Your Home
Prevention is key. Here are a few simple steps:
-
Keep all medications, cleaners, and chemicals locked away.
-
Store food out of reach and secure trash cans.
-
Don’t leave drinks, candy, or gum unattended.
-
Know which plants are dangerous and swap them out for pet-safe alternatives.
-
Read labels carefully. Some products like essential oils and diffusers can be toxic too.
Pinnacle Is Here to Help
We know life gets busy, and sometimes pets get into things they shouldn’t. That’s why we’re always here to help you navigate emergencies and prevent them before they happen.
If you’re unsure about an item in your home, bring it up during your next visit or call us anytime. We can help identify risks and recommend safe alternatives.
⚠️ Need a pet-proofing consultation or have questions about poison prevention? Call Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic today. We're just a phone call away from peace of mind.